Diastema refers to a noticeable gap between the teeth that’s wider than 0.5 millimeters (0.02 inch).
Usually, the spacing issue is harmless, but it can sometimes be related to infections or dental issues.
A diastema is very common in childhood until the permanent teeth come in.
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When it occurs with permanent teeth, it can be corrected for aesthetic or functional reasons.
Causes
There are several contributing factors that may play into the cause of diastema.
Other factors include:
Can You Prevent Gaps in Your Teeth?
Stopping thumb sucking can prevent diastema.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of diastema is made by a dentist during an oral examination.
Keep in mind that children commonly have gaps in their teeth that dont require treatment.
Treatment
For most people, the repair of diastema is a painless, uncomplicated process.
Correcting the spacing can benefit psychological as well as physical health.
This is because often food becomes trapped.
Some experts recommend the use of awater flosserto make it easier to clean between the teeth.
There are several treatment methods that can end the gaps.
According to the experts, there is really no way of effectively performing a do-it-yourself procedure at home.
In fact, some types of self-treatment (such as using rubber bands) can even be harmful.
Summary
Diastema refers to a gap between our teeth.
This is common in young children but is usually outgrown by adulthood.
Correcting unwanted gaps is usually fairly easy to do with orthodontic procedures.
Some people with diastema are fine with their appearance and do not feel the need for treatment.
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