A mismatch between the size of the jaw bones and the size of the teeth can cause either extra space between teeth or crowding of teeth. If the teeth are too small for the jaw bone, spaces between the teeth will occur. If the teeth are too big for the jaw, teeth will be crowded.
Spaces develop for a few other reasons as well.
Sometimes some teeth are missing or undersized. This happens most often with the upper lateral incisors (the teeth next to the two upper front teeth).
A diastema also can be caused by an oversized labial frenum. The labial frenum is the piece of tissue that normally extends from the inside of your upper lip to the gum just above your two upper front teeth. In some situations, the labial frenum continues to grow and passes between the two front teeth. If this happens, it blocks the natural closing of the space between these teeth.
Children may have temporary gaps as their baby teeth fall out. Most of these spaces close as the permanent teeth reach their final positions.
Some people get braces, which move the teeth together. Often, no matter where the diastema is, you must wear a full set of braces – on both your upper and lower teeth. That's because moving any teeth affects your entire mouth.
If your lateral incisors are too small, your dentist may suggest widening them using crowns, veneers or bonding.
If you have a space because you are missing teeth, you might need more extensive dental repair. This might include dental implants, a bridge, or a partial denture.
If a large labial frenum is causing the gap, the frenum can be reduced through surgery called a frenectomy. If a frenectomy is done in a younger child, the space may close on its own. If it is done in an older child or an adult, the space may need to be closed with braces.
