Diastema – can it be treated or does it need to be removed?

Diastema, i.e. a gap between teeth, is an issue that may raise many questions and doubts. It is worth knowing the causes of its development, treatment methods and possible consequences of lack of intervention. In this article, we will discuss all aspects of diastema so that you can make an informed decision about its treatment.

What is diastema, what types are there?

Diastema is a term used to describe abnormal spaces between teeth. It most often occurs between the two upper incisors, but it can also affect other teeth. There are several types of diastema:

• Central diastema – occurs between the two upper incisors.
• Lateral diastema – a gap between other teeth in the mouth.
• Diastema associated with missing teeth – the result of missing teeth in the dental arch.

What are the causes of gaps between teeth?

Diastema formation may be the result of various factors. The most important of them are:

• Differences in tooth size – when teeth are too small in relation to the size of the dental arch, a gap may appear.
• Oral habits – e.g. thumb sucking or using a pacifier – may contribute to the development of diastema in children.
• Missing some teeth – defects in the dental arch may lead to the displacement of the remaining teeth and the formation of a gap.
• Congenital genetic factors – some people are more predisposed to diastics due to inherited characteristics of the oral structure.

Diastema in a child – why does it occur?

In children, diastema can appear for various reasons. One of the most common is that baby teeth are smaller than permanent teeth, which can lead to gaps between them. In addition, oral habits, such as sucking a pacifier or finger, may contribute to the development of diastema in children.

How it is treated – braces, implant and diastema closure

Treatment of diastics depends on its type and causes. There are various methods that can be used:

Bonding

Bonding is a method of applying a special composite material to the teeth, which is then modeled and hardened. This technique is an effective way to close the diastema, especially in the case of a central diastema.

Diastema veneers

Veneers are thin flakes of porcelain that are glued to the teeth using a special glue. They are an ideal solution for side diastamas and other aesthetic dental problems.

Implant

If you have diastema due to missing teeth, dental implants may be necessary. An implant is an artificial dental crown that is permanently anchored to the jaw bone.

Does diastema need to be treated? what are the complications if left untreated?

Diastic treatment is not always necessary, especially if it does not bother the patient aesthetically or functionally. However, it is worth paying attention to possible complications of untreated diastics. These may include problems with oral hygiene, caries, or problems with the chewing system.

Your suggestions, recommended articles

If you have diastema or are considering treatment for it, it is best to consult with an experienced dentist. Each case is individual, so it is important to adapt the treatment to your needs. Remember that a properly cared for mouth is the key to maintaining healthy teeth for many years.

If you are interested in more detailed information about diastics and its treatment, we recommend reading articles on the subject available from reputable medical sources and consulting with professionals in the field of dentistry.

Remember that diastema can be treated effectively and the effects may improve your smile and quality of life.