That gap between your child’s two front teeth – or any two of his teeth for that matter – is known professionally as a diastema. It is a common phenomenon among children whose teeth are continuing to develop and usually corrects itself with time. However, if a diastema is still present after the permanent teeth have erupted the space can be corrected with a corrective dental procedure.
Many people feel that a mid-line diastema – the one between the two front teeth – is kind of cute, even attractive. Some people of African cultures admire the look so much that they request surgery to fabricate a diastema.
Crooked teeth are most often the result of a crowded space – too many teeth, too little room for them. A diastema on the other hand could occur when the teeth are undersized or small in comparison to the jawbone. If thumb sucking is allowed to continue after the baby teeth have been replace by the permanent ones a diastema could result.
For those of us who are not so pleased with the look of a mid-line diastema, there are ways to fill in that space. Braces are a popular option but since it’s impossible to move one or two teeth without affecting the others patients could expect to go through the entire orthodontic process. The extent of the treatment will be determined on a case by case basis. It may well be that the diastema can be corrected with a veneer or dental bonding
The connective tissue leading from the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is called a frenum. A second frenum is located on the inside of the upper lip and leads to that part of the gum between the two front teeth. An enlarged frenum can also impede normal function. A surgical frenectomy may be performed before the diastema is addressed.
The predisposition to diastema may be genetic in which case an early orthodontic evaluation is beneficial toward a corrective treatment plan.
Bring any pediatric dental concerns that you may have to Dr. Patterson of Epic Dentistry for Kids in Aurora. Call today @ 720-721-3600.
