A gap between teeth, known as a diastema, is a space between two teeth. Though they can appear anywhere, they are most often seen between the two upper front teeth. Diastemas are common in both children and adults. For many, a tooth gap is simply a unique feature of their smile, but it can also be a sign of underlying dental factors.
Common Causes of Tooth Gaps
Tooth gaps can arise from a variety of factors, often from a mismatch between jaw and tooth size. When teeth are smaller than the jawbone, extra space develops. Genetics can influence this size discrepancy, causing gaps to run in families.
An oversized labial frenum, the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth, is another common cause. If this tissue is thick or extends too far down, it can prevent front teeth from coming together.
Missing teeth lead to gaps, as neighboring teeth may shift into the vacant space. Childhood habits like prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can also exert pressure, pushing teeth forward and creating spaces. An incorrect swallowing reflex, where the tongue pushes against the front teeth instead of the roof of the mouth, contributes to gap formation.
When Tooth Gaps Are Considered Normal
Tooth gaps are a normal, temporary part of dental development, especially in children. Spaces between primary (“baby”) teeth are common and beneficial. These gaps provide room for larger permanent teeth to erupt and align.
Another phase is the “ugly duckling” stage, occurring during mixed dentition, usually between ages six and eight. Permanent front teeth emerge with initial gaps that often close naturally as canine teeth erupt and push them together. These developmental gaps typically do not indicate a problem and often resolve without intervention.
When Tooth Gaps Might Indicate a Concern
While many tooth gaps are harmless, some situations warrant professional attention. Gaps that appear or widen in adulthood can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, such as gum disease (periodontal disease). This condition can cause inflammation and damage to the bone, leading to tooth migration and gap formation or widening. Symptoms like red, swollen, or bleeding gums, or loose teeth, often accompany gum disease.
Gaps can also be problematic if they result from missing permanent teeth, which can lead to other teeth shifting and affecting bite alignment. The absence of a tooth can cause adjacent teeth to tilt and opposing teeth to over-erupt, disrupting the bite and potentially leading to further dental issues. Persistent harmful habits like tongue thrusting continuing into adulthood can also contribute to gaps, affecting speech or chewing efficiency.
Options for Addressing Tooth Gaps
Various dental procedures are available to close or manage tooth gaps. Orthodontic treatments, like traditional braces or clear aligners, can gradually move teeth to close spaces and improve alignment. These methods are often recommended for larger gaps or when other alignment issues are present.
Cosmetic solutions offer another approach for smaller gaps. Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to teeth, sculpted and hardened to fill the space. Veneers, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain, can be bonded to the front surface of teeth to create a uniform appearance and close gaps. When an oversized labial frenum is the cause, a minor surgical procedure called a frenectomy can reduce the tissue, sometimes allowing the gap to close on its own, especially in younger individuals.