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A diastema is a space or gap between two teeth. It generally appears between the two upper front teeth. Nonetheless, gaps can occur between any two teeth.

Incompatibility between the size of the jaw bones and the size of the teeth can cause one of the following;

  • Extra space between teeth
  • Crowding of teeth

If the teeth are smaller for the jaw bone, spaces between the teeth will happen. If the teeth are a bit bigger, teeth will be crowded. Spaces also develop from other cases.

You will sometimes run into situations where teeth are missing or undersized. This typically happens with upper lateral incisors (the teeth next to the two upper front teeth). That can cause the upper central incisors to create a space.

A diastema also can be caused by an oversized labial frenum. The labial frenum is the piece of tissue that usually extends from the inside of your upper lip to the gum just above your two upper front teeth.

In certain scenarios, the labial frenum sustains it’s growth and passes between the two front teeth. If this happens, it will block the common closing of the space between these teeth.

Bad habits can also lead to gaps between the teeth. Thumb sucking, for example, tends to pull the front teeth forward, creating gaps.

Spaces can also develop from an improper swallowing reflex. For a handful of individuals, the tongue presses against the roof of the mouth (palate) during swallowing.

Other’s develop a different reflex known as a tongue thrust. When they swallow, the tongue presses against the front teeth. As time passes, the pressure will push the front teeth forward. This can cause spaces to develop.

Periodontal (gum) disease results in the loss of the bone that supports the teeth. In people who have lost a lot of bone, the teeth can sometime get loose. This movement can result in gaps between the front teeth.

Symptoms Of Diastema

A diastema which ensues because of a mismatch between the teeth and the jaw doesn’t have symptoms. However, spaces caused by a tongue thrust habit or periodontal disease will typically tend to get bigger with time.

Furthermore, the teeth may become loose, and discomfort or pain may occur, more specifically when biting or chewing.

Diagnosis Of Diastema

You may notice a space when brushing or flossing. Your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist will also be able to notice spaces during an examination.

Expected Duration Of Diastema

If the gap was caused by a mismatch between the permanent teeth and the jaw size, the spaces can be expected to remain throughout life. Gaps caused by a tongue thrust habit or periodontal disease can get larger with time.

Prevention Of Diastema

Not all spaces can be prevented. If the reason for a space is a missing tooth or a discrepancy between the teeth and the jaw size, the spaces cannot be prevented without treatment.

Maintaining your gum health is EVERYTHING when it comes to good oral health. Routine flossing and brushing will help to prevent periodontal disease and its related bone loss.

Individuals with a tongue thrust habit can reprogram themselves and relearn to swallow by pushing their tongue up against their palate. As a result, Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say that breaking this habit can prevent widening of the spaces between teeth.

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How To Treat Diastema

Sometimes, a diastema is part of a set of problems that require orthodontic treatment. In other cases, a diastema is the only problem. However, a few may seek treatment for appearance reasons.

Other’s get braces, which help move the teeth together. Often, no matter where the diastema is, you must wear a full set of braces — on both your upper and lower teeth. That’s because moving any teeth affects your entire mouth.

If your lateral incisors are too small, your Rancho Cucamonga Dentist may recommend widening them using crowns, veneers or bonding.

If you have a space because you are missing teeth, you might need more extensive dental repair. This can include:

  • Dental implants
  • A bridge
  • Or a partial denture

If a large labial frenum is causing the gap, the frenum can get smaller through a surgery called a frenectomy.

If the gap is caused by periodontal disease, than periodontal treatment by a Rancho Cucamonga Dentist or gum specialist (periodontist) is needed. When gum health is restored, in many cases braces can be used to move the teeth into place.

When To Call A Professional Rancho Cucamonga Dentist

If you have a space between your teeth or see one in your child’s mouth, speak with your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist. They will help you clearly understand the reason for the space and may even refer you to an orthodontist ( a specialist in treatment with braces).  

If your space is the result of periodontal disease, your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist may refer you to a periodontist.

For the latest tips on oral health, flossing, dental care and much more, make sure to follow our blog at https://www.arrowdentalarts.com/blog

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