Dental diastema: should you close it or embrace it? A guide to deciding

That gap between the teeth that some people want to close as soon as possible and others proudly embrace has a name: diastema. Before deciding what to do about it, it is worth understanding what it is, why it appears and whether, in your case, it is simply an aesthetic feature or whether there may be something else behind it. In this guide, we help you make an informed decision, without pushing you towards either option.

What is a dental diastema?

A dental diastema is a visible space or gap between two teeth, most commonly between the two upper central incisors, although it can occur between other teeth as well. It is very common and forms part of many people’s natural smile.

The starting point, in a neutral and non-alarmist way, is this: a diastema is not always a problem. In many cases, it is a purely aesthetic feature — simply another characteristic of the smile — while in others it may have a certain functional component or be associated with an underlying issue. For this reason, before considering any treatment, the important thing is to understand what is causing it and whether treatment is actually advisable.

Causes of dental diastema

A diastema can have many different causes, and understanding them is important because treatment depends on the underlying cause. These are some of the most common.

Disproportion between tooth size and jaw size

When there is more space in the jaw than the teeth require — for example, small teeth in a relatively wide jaw — gaps can remain between the teeth. This is one of the most common causes and often has a genetic component.

Large or low-attached upper labial frenulum

The frenulum is the small fold of tissue that connects the upper lip to the gum. When it is large or attaches very low, between the central incisors, it can help keep the teeth apart and contribute to a midline diastema.

Childhood habits and tongue pressure

Certain childhood habits, such as thumb sucking, prolonged dummy or pacifier use, or tongue thrusting against the teeth when swallowing or speaking, can gradually cause the teeth to move apart.

Missing teeth or gum problems

A missing tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to move and spaces to appear. Gum disease (periodontitis) can also affect the supporting structures of the teeth, causing them to migrate and creating gaps that were not previously present.

Is having a diastema bad? When it is purely aesthetic and when it should be assessed

The simple answer is that, in many cases, having a diastema is not a problem at all. It may simply be a characteristic of the smile, and some people even consider it an attractive personal feature and choose to keep it. There is no medical obligation to close a diastema if there is no underlying problem.

It is important to distinguish between a “matter of personal preference” and a “sign that should be assessed”. It is advisable to have a professional evaluation when the diastema:

• Is associated with gum disease (bleeding, tooth mobility or gum recession).
• Occurs alongside an altered bite or functional problems.
• Appears as a result of tooth migration or a missing tooth.
• Increases or changes over time, which may indicate an underlying process.

In other words, if the gap has always been there, causes no problems and there are no signs of disease, keeping or closing it is usually an aesthetic decision. If it has appeared recently, is becoming larger or there are symptoms affecting the gums, it is advisable to have it assessed.

Close it or embrace it? How to make the decision

This is the main question, and the honest answer is that there is no single right choice: it depends on you and on your individual case. To make an informed decision, consider three factors:

• Do you like it or does it bother you? If it is a feature you identify with and feel comfortable with, embracing it is a perfectly valid option. If it makes you feel self-conscious when you smile, it may make sense to consider closing it.
• What is causing it? If there is an underlying problem involving the gums, bite or a missing tooth, the priority is not aesthetics but treating the underlying cause.
• Are there any functional implications? If the diastema affects the way you bite, speak or the health of your gums, it may be advisable to address it even if it does not bother you aesthetically.

The best decision is an informed decision: understanding why you have a diastema and what implications it may have allows you to choose freely between keeping it and correcting it.

How to close a dental diastema: treatment options

If you decide to close the gap, there are several possible solutions. The most appropriate option depends on the cause and the size of the gap, and in some cases more than one treatment may be combined.

Dental composite (conservative closure)

Composite can be used to close the space by adding resin directly to the teeth, with little or no removal of tooth structure and often in a single appointment. It is particularly suitable for small diastemas and is a conservative and more affordable option, although the material may become stained or worn over time and may require maintenance.

Dental veneers

Dental veneers can improve the spacing, shape and colour of the teeth at the same time, creating a harmonious aesthetic result. They may be considered in selected cases where, in addition to closing the gap, a more comprehensive aesthetic change is desired.

Orthodontics

When the gap is large, there are several spaces between the teeth or there is an underlying bite problem, orthodontic treatment is often the most appropriate option because it repositions the teeth and addresses the cause rather than simply masking the gap. Today, discreet options such as clear aligner orthodontics are also available.

Treatment of the frenulum or gums (when they are the cause)

If the diastema is caused by a prominent frenulum or gum disease, the underlying cause should be addressed before or alongside closure of the gap — for example, through treatment of the frenulum or periodontal treatment. Otherwise, the gap may reopen.

Can a diastema reopen after treatment?

This is a very reasonable question that is not always fully explained: yes, a diastema can reopen if the result is not properly maintained. The key factor is retention, particularly after orthodontic treatment. Once treatment has finished, it is essential to use the retainers recommended by the dental professional to help prevent the teeth from separating again, as teeth can have a tendency to move back towards their previous position.

In the case of composite and veneers, the result can be stable, but the materials require regular reviews and maintenance over time, which may include polishing, touch-ups or replacement. If the diastema was caused by a gum problem, maintaining good periodontal health is important to help prevent the gap from reopening. In short, closing the diastema is only part of the process; maintaining the result matters too.

When to request an assessment

If you are considering closing your diastema, or simply want to understand why it has appeared and whether treatment is advisable, a professional assessment can evaluate the cause, the health of your gums and your bite, and explain the realistic options for your case, including their advantages and maintenance requirements.

At Face Clinic, our cosmetic dentistry team assesses each smile individually, always respecting your decision whether to keep your diastema or correct it. If you would like to discuss your case, you can request a consultation with our team.