Why are my teeth spacing apart? More about Diastema
Diastema is a term used to describe a space or gap between the teeth. While these gaps can form throughout the mouth, they are often most noticeable when the gaps exists between the two front teeth. The condition can impact both children and adults, but they often disappear in children once the permanent teeth erupt.
In some cases, the gaps are not easy to notice and small. In other cases, the gaps may be larger, quite noticeable and concerning for the patient. For patients who are concerned with the appearance of the gap, there are methods which can be used to reduce the size or close it completely.
Causes
There no single cause associated with diastema. Rather, there are several factors associated with the gaps. The condition may be due to the size of a patient’s jaw bone and teeth. When the teeth are too small for the jaw bone, gaps can form. This gives the appearance of teeth which are spaced too far apart. Genetics determine the size of a patient’s teeth and jaw bone. As a result, diastema is often an inherited trait.
Diastema may also develop from an overgrowth of the tissue which borders the gum line and the two front teeth in the upper jaw. This overgrowth of tissue causes the teeth to separate and ultimately results in a gap.
Some gaps between the teeth are due to bad habits such as children who suck their thumb. The gap forms in this case from the sucking motion putting pressure on the front teeth. This causes them to pull forward.
In some adults and older children, incorrect swallowing reflexes can cause diastema to develop. The tongue should position itself at the roof when the patient swallows. In some patients however, the tongue can push against the front teeth which is known as tongue thrust. While this may seem harmless, the extra pressure can cause the front teeth to separate.
Gum disease can also be the culprit for diastemas. The inflammation present with gum disease can cause damage to the gums and tissue which supports the teeth. This can cause the loss of teeth or gaps. Common signs of gum disease can include gums which may be red and swollen, bone loss, loose teeth, and gums that easily bleed.
Treatment
Depending on the underlying cause of diastema, treatment for a may or may not be required. A diastema may simply be a cosmetic issue and not cause by an issue such as gum disease.
One of the most common treatments for diastema is braces which contain wires and brackets. Braces place pressure on the teeth and slowly adjust them into the desired location. In this case, braces work to close the gap.
For patients who prefer to avoid the use of braces, there are other cosmetic procedures which can be used to fill the gaps. Veneers or bonding are commonly used to eliminate or reduce the gap. With bonding, the dentist uses a tooth-colored composite to fill in the gaps. Veneers are placed over the teeth to improve the overall appearance of the teeth and eliminate gaps. These solutions are commonly used to repair a tooth which is chipped or cracked. A dental bridge can be used to correct a gap or replace a missing tooth.
If the gum tissue above the upper front teeth is causing the gap, the excess tissue may need to be surgically removed. Braces may also be needed to assist in closing larger gaps.