Diastema facts for kids

A diastema (say: dye-uh-STEE-muh) is a space or gap between teeth. It's a common feature in many animals, especially mammals. For example, a cat has a gap between its sharp canine teeth and its back molar teeth used for slicing food. Horses also have a diastema between their front incisors, which they use to pull grass, and their molars, which grind it.

What is a Diastema?

A diastema is simply a space between any two teeth. While it's normal for many animals, it can also happen in people. These gaps can appear anywhere in the mouth, but they are most often seen between the two front upper teeth.

Why Do People Get Diastemas?

There are several reasons why someone might have a diastema:

• Jaw and Tooth Size: Sometimes, a person's teeth are too small for their jawbone. This leaves extra space, creating gaps.
• Missing Teeth: If a tooth doesn't grow in, or is lost, it can leave a space. The teeth around it might then shift, making the gap bigger.
• Extra Tissue: A small piece of tissue, called the labial frenum, connects your upper lip to your gums. If this tissue is too large, it can push the two front teeth apart, creating a gap.
• Thumb Sucking: For children, habits like thumb sucking can push the front teeth forward, leading to a gap.
• Swallowing Reflex: When you swallow, your tongue usually presses against the roof of your mouth. If your tongue pushes against your front teeth instead, it can slowly push them apart over time.

Is a Diastema a Problem?

For many people, a diastema is just a part of their unique smile and doesn't cause any health problems. Some famous people even have them! However, sometimes a large gap can affect how someone speaks or how they bite down. It can also make some people feel self-conscious about their smile.

How Can a Diastema Be Fixed?

If someone wants to close a diastema, a dentist can help. Here are some common ways:

• Braces: Braces are a common way to move teeth closer together. They use gentle pressure over time to shift teeth into the correct position.
• Dental Bonding: For smaller gaps, a dentist can use a tooth-colored material to make the teeth wider, closing the space. This is a quick and easy fix.
• Veneers or Crowns: These are thin covers placed over the front of the teeth. They can make teeth look bigger and close gaps.
• Surgery: If a large labial frenum is causing the gap, a small surgery might be done to reduce its size. This is often followed by braces to close the space.

Remember, whether to fix a diastema or not is a personal choice. Many people are happy with their unique smile!

See also

In Spanish: Diastema para niños