What is a diastema / spaced teeth?
A diastema is a visible gap between two teeth. People also say spaced teeth or a tooth gap. It is often noticed between the upper front teeth, but gaps can appear in more than one place. Not every gap means disease: some raise only appearance concerns; others may involve biting, speech, or food trapping and are assessed together.
Does every tooth gap need treatment?
No. Some spacing is developmental or acceptable to the person and can be monitored. Gaps seen while baby teeth are present or while permanent teeth are erupting are not the same as a lasting adult gap. If treatment is considered, the cause of the space and overall oral health are reviewed first.
Evaluating possible causes
During examination, factors that may contribute to the gap are assessed together:
- Tooth size and jaw/arch relationship: When teeth are small relative to the jaw, spaces may appear.
- Alignment and bite: Tooth position or how the teeth meet can widen or reduce a gap.
- Missing teeth: Neighbouring teeth may drift over time and leave or change a space.
- Gums and supporting tissues: Gum disease or reduced bone support may be linked to new or widening gaps.
- Habits: Prolonged sucking or tongue thrusting in childhood can influence alignment.
The soft-tissue connection between the upper lip and the gums may also be checked during examination; that finding alone does not mean surgery is required.
Bonding, orthodontics, and porcelain laminate: key differences
Options depend on the cause and width of the gap, neighbouring tooth shape, and gum health. One method is not right for everyone.
- Orthodontics: Aims to close the space by moving teeth (for example braces or clear aligners). See Orthodontics.
- Composite bonding: Aims to change shape or apparent width by adding tooth-coloured material, without relocating the tooth. It may be considered for small or selected gaps. See Composite Bonding (Direct Composite Veneer).
- Porcelain laminate (selected cases): A thin covering on the front of the tooth can refine appearance and may help mask a gap. Enamel preparation may be needed, and the change is considered irreversible. See Porcelain Laminate Veneer.
Changing a tooth’s shape while it stays in place is a different plan from moving the tooth to close the space; sometimes steps are sequenced or combined. Active decay or gum problems are addressed first.
New or widening gaps
In adults, a new or gradually widening gap may relate to bite change, drift after a missing tooth, or gum and support issues. Bleeding, swelling, recession, or a sense of tooth mobility should prompt timely clinical review. These signs alone do not make a diagnosis; examination and imaging when needed clarify the picture.
Care, follow-up, and reopening
Care depends on the method chosen. After orthodontics, retainers are often advised to help limit teeth moving again and reopening the space. With bonding or porcelain laminate, the material may wear, chip, or loosen over time; reviews and repair or replacement may be needed. How well the result is maintained varies with the method used, the cause of the gap, and adherence to care and follow-up.
For assessment, see Dental Examination and Consultation or request an appointment via Contact. Department overview: Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry.