Diastema is the empty space between two neighboring teeth, the most common form is the interincisive one, between the upper incisors. Generally does not involve any problem of functional nature but only aesthetic, the latter easily solvable.
Diastema is the result of the greater development of an arch, compared to the size of the teeth of the corresponding arch.
This detail has often been the subject of debate, it is either loved or hated. Many actors and public figures have made it a special feature of their appearance such as Kate Moss, Madonna, Elton John, Eddie Murphy, Ronaldo and many others who flaunt diastema with much pride.
This small defect is very common and only in rare cases it is a pathological problem, which can be easily corrected with specific treatments. However, during chewing the distance between the two teeth can become a weak point for the gum, which remains without the protection of the tooth. At this point there may be a risk of trauma to the gingival papilla, which can then become gingivitis.
The main causes of the diastema can be: the hypertrophy of the labial frenum that separates the two incisors, the bad habit of sucking the thumb as a child, or the disproportionate size between the size of the teeth of the upper arch and those of the jaw.
To fix the diastema does not require implantology interventions, you can resort in most cases to orthodontics.
However, we can say that even if the diastema does not create particular damage to the teeth, it is also true that the presence of a space between the teeth is not always aesthetically pleasing and that is why many people turn to a dentist to solve the problem.
There are several solutions to correct the diastema:
- Frenulectomy, performed when the two incisors are unable to approach each other due to the gingival frenulum, which is reshaped and then correctly positioned.
- Use of an orthodontic appliance, fixed or mobile. It usually takes from 6 to 2 years, depending on the space to be corrected.
- Fixed lingual orthodontics without brackets. This type of appliance offers many advantages over a traditional one; in fact it is thinner and does not include metal or ceramic brackets; it does not create problems with phonation;
- Dental veneers. They are used when the space to be filled is not too large. In fact, these veneers are porcelain or ceramic shells 0.2-0.5 mm thick, which cover the teeth, changing their shape and making them larger;
- Crowns and dental implants. These two solutions are used in case the teeth are not healthy, but rather affected by caries or other pathologies that do not allow to save them.
If you want a consultation to check what kind of interventions to do and to advise you with professionalism and friendliness, we are waiting for you in our office to give you a dazzling smile!