Why Are My Teeth Spacing Apart?
If you have gaps or spaces between your teeth, you have a condition called diastema. Teeth spacing can form anywhere in your mouth, and gaps can be more noticeable if you happen to have space between your upper front teeth. Sometimes the spaces are small, and most people would not notice when you smile. But if you have a large gap or gaps and you do not like the way your teeth look, ask your dentist about teeth spacing and your options for closing a gap or reducing its size.
What Causes Diastema?
Diastema affects both adults and children. It is a condition that can be caused by several factors:
- Teeth and Jawbone Size. In some patients, because of the size of their teeth and jawbone, gaps can form when teeth are too small for the jawbone. As a result, teeth are spaced too far apart.
- Gum Tissue Overgrowth. Diastema can also be an issue if you have tissue overgrowth in the gumline bordering your two upper front teeth. The overgrowth can pull on your front teeth and cause them to separate, leaving a gap.
- Gum Disease. Diastema can also develop from gum disease. Inflammation damages the gums and tissue supporting your teeth, which can lead to gaps, possible loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss.
- Incorrect Swallowing. In older children and adults, diastema can develop from incorrect swallowing. Instead of the tongue being positioned at the roof of the mouth while swallowing, it may push against the front teeth, causing what dentists call tongue thrust, which puts pressure on the front teeth and can cause gaps to form over time.
- Certain Habits. Children who suck their thumb may be vulnerable to gaps forming because the sucking motion puts pressure on the front teeth, causing them to move forward. Gaps sometimes correct once a child’s permanent teeth grow in.
- Genetics. Diastema can run in families, so the size of your teeth and jawbone can be determined by genetics.
How is Diastema Treated?
Treatment for diastema may or may not be necessary, depending on the underlying cause. For some patients, diastema is a cosmetic issue that does not include a more serious problem such as gum disease.
Braces are a common treatment for diastema. Gaps between teeth are slowly moved together and closed by the gradual pressure from the wires and brackets used with braces. Some cases of diastema can be repaired with invisible or removable braces.
If braces are unwanted, ask your dentist about cosmetic options for teeth spacing, such as bonding or veneers. Your dentist will apply tooth-colored composite bonding over your teeth or use thin plastic or porcelain shells that fit over your teeth. Another option is a dental bridge, which can replace a missing tooth or correct a gap.
If the gums above your two upper front teeth are overgrown and you have a gap, surgery can correct the issue, but you may also need braces to fully close larger gaps.
Take Care of Your Gums to Prevent Teeth Spacing
Check with your dentist as soon as possible if you notice gaps in your teeth and signs of gum disease, including red, irritated, and swollen gums; bleeding gums; or a loose tooth or teeth. If your dentist diagnoses you with gum disease, he or she will provide treatment to stop the infection before dealing with teeth spacing issues.
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