What is a diastema?

A diastema is a common feature in children’s teeth and occasionally adults, it is simply a gap between two teeth. Some people have a gap between their two front teeth and consider it a character-giving trait while others prefer to correct it. Some cultures consider a diastema to be a positive trait signifying attractiveness and luck.

In some animals, they are beneficial for food consumption, allowing the animal to continue eating while also moving food into the cheeks, like a chipmunk!

Should I correct my diastema or leave it alone?

A diastema is perfectly fine to leave alone unless it is causing some sort of irritation. This is a cosmetic and personal call, if you are happy with your smile the way it is or you simply do not want to wear braces, then leave the gap! So many celebrities have chosen to embrace the gap between their two front teeth like Madonna, David Letterman, and Michael Strahan!

If your diastema makes you self-conscious and you do not smile as broadly as you should, then you might want to consider cosmetic dentistry to correct it.

How is a diastema corrected?

If you have decided that you do not like the gap in your teeth and you would prefer to correct it, you will likely need orthodontic treatment. Another option is veneers which can be placed to close gaps.

For adults, clear liner therapy such as Invisalign is a great way to effectively close your diastema and avoid metal braces. Anyone can use clear liner therapy but adults tend to lean towards it because it is clear and removable for eating and oral hygiene. Clear aligners can usually achieve desired results within six months to a year.

If you would rather use porcelain veneers, they will be fabricated to be slightly wider than your natural tooth shape. Veneers may be a little less expensive than orthodontia, veneers running from $750 to $2000 per tooth and orthodontic treatment costing up to $5000.

One more option for closing a diastema is dental bonding. Bonding is less expensive than veneers and it can last a long time but bonding is a composite resin material and is not as strong as porcelain. Bonding is prone to chipping and staining whereas porcelain is much more durable and does not stain. Bonding is less expensive costing between $200 and $600 per tooth. your dentist will apply the composite material between each teeth to build up the width of the teeth and bring them closer together, closing the gap.

If you have a gap between your teeth that you would rather not have, speak with your dentist to determine which of these treatment options would be best for you.

More on Diastema : How Do You Fix a Diastema?