A gap appears between two teeth, most commonly seen in the upper front teeth, as advised by the dentist in Yorba Linda, CA. Although diastema is a known condition that can occur in people at any age it often comes as an aesthetic concern for many. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and types of diastema in Yorba Linda, CA
What is Diastema?
This is a dental term for gaps or spaces between teeth. These are spaces that can appear between any two teeth, although most often they are found in the maxillary central incisors. The space between the primary teeth can range from a mere gap to a large separation that affects speech and appearance.
Causes of Diastema
There are many contributing factors to the development of diastema, these include:
1. Genetic Predisposition:
The genetic composition of the person largely determines dental structure. It could also be a hereditary issue, meaning if your parents or maybe their parents had diastema you might end up having one too. When your teeth are too big or small compared to the jawbone, there is a chance that additional spaces can develop.
2. Size Discrepancy of Teeth and Jaw Bones
In another case, when teeth are too small for the jawbone, gaps can develop. On the flip side, a big jawbone about teeth can cause spacing between teeth as well.
3. Habits and Behaviors:
Habits, especially in childhood or early adolescence can cause diastema. Thumb-sucking applies pressure on the front teeth, forcing them apart. Extended use of a pacifier or bottle feeding can have this same effect.
4. Frenum Attachment:
A labial frenum is a connective tissue between the inside of your upper lip and the area just above your two top front teeth. Because an overly large or tight frenum will attach the front teeth, sometimes it can push them apart so you have a thing that is called diastema – something just seems to keep pushing those front teeth and eventually they end up quite wide.
5. Gum Disease:
Gum recession coupled with bone loss from prolonged infection can change tooth position and create always some slight space between front teeth, while gum disease also enhances the function of caries (tooth decay) on locks.
6. Tongue Thrust:
Over time, a swallowing reflex where the tongue pushes against the teeth can lead to these frontal sensors moving apart and causing gapped teeth.
7. Missing Teeth:
Congenitally missing teeth or those removed due to other kinds of trauma and even extractions can result in these gaped spaces leading to the migration of neighboring teeth.
Types of Diastema
Classify Diastema According to its Location and the Reason for this pathology:
1. Midline Diastema:
This is probably the only one who knows everybody has- a gap between their upper front teeth (maxillary central incisors). For example; due to genetic aspects, frenum attachment, and thumb-sucking
2. Generalized Diastema:
It is a type where we can find gaps between multiple teeth. This originates from the mismatch of size between a tooth and jawbone definitely few cases, for example in situations of periodontal disease multiple teeth are unfortunate
3. Localized Diastema:
This occurs between certain teeth, usually not the frontmost. This can be a result of missing teeth, frenum attachment, or other localized issues.
4. Temporary Diastema:
This type is usually visual in children as they shed their primary teeth and grow lasting ones. As more permanent teeth come through and the dental arch fills up, these spaces generally close.
Diastema is the medical term for gaps between teeth. From habits that caused gaps to gum disease-related reasons, there are many different ways we can correct diastema and improve functionality as well as aesthetics. Talking with a nearby dentist will give you individualized suggestions and services to fill those spaces for a smile you can flaunt.