A diastema is a gap between two teeth. Many cultures have celebrated a prominent diastema. In some African countries, a gap between the teeth is considered a desirable trait in women. A diastema in France is considered “lucky teeth.” In American culture, many well-known celebrities have a prominent tooth gap–Madonna, Jack Black, Eddie Murphy, Willie Nelson, and even Amelia Earhart, to name a few. Many people are proud of the unique look their diastema brings to their smile.
A gap between teeth does not generally cause any dental health issues. It is usually caused by tooth alignment issues, protruding teeth, or a tooth size discrepancy. Many children with a diastema lose it when their adult teeth come in, so treatment is unnecessary. However, there are several options when it comes to correcting a diastema.
1. Keep it and embrace the character is brings to your smile.
2. Use orthodontics to correct the gap by moving the teeth.
3. Use of porcelain veneers custom fit to cover the gap.
4. Replacement of teeth using implants or crown and bridge work.
Contact your dental health professional about the best option for you if you want to correct a gap between your teeth. See our website at www.allsmilescare.com for more detailed information about the treatment options above.
