Do you have a diastema and wonder if it is normal? A diastema is a space between the teeth that, although often an aesthetic feature, can be related to dental or functional problems. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about diastemas, their causes, and the treatments available in Peru.
In this article, we explain what a diastema is, why it appears, when it is advisable to treat it, and what the best solutions available in Peru are.
🤔 What is a diastema?
The diastema is the visible space or separation between two teeth, which can occur anywhere in the mouth, but is more common between the upper central incisors, that is, the upper front teeth.
Although for some people this space is a personal trait that does not bother them, for others it can be a source of aesthetic discomfort or even affect functions such as pronunciation.
The diastema is not only an aesthetic issue, but it can also have functional and oral health implications.
🔍 What are the causes of diastemas?
There are various reasons why a person may present diastemas. The causes can be genetic, anatomical, or acquired. Below, we detail the most frequent:
1. 📏 Size difference between teeth and maxilla
When the teeth are smaller than usual in relation to the size of the maxillary bone, spaces are generated between them. It is a common cause and usually has a genetic origin.
2. 💁♀️ Prominent upper labial frenum
A frenum is a small fold of tissue that connects the lip to the gum. If the upper labial frenum is too thick or inserts too low, it can prevent the front teeth from joining properly, causing a diastema.
3. 👀 Inadequate oral habits
Habits such as:
- Thumb sucking
- Pushing teeth with the tongue (atypical swallowing)
- Prolonged use of a bottle or pacifier
These habits can modify the position of the teeth and create spaces.
4. 🦷 Tooth loss
When a tooth is lost and not replaced, neighboring teeth tend to shift, which can generate diastemas.
5. 🦷 Periodontal diseases
Gum diseases such as periodontitis cause the loss of bone that supports the teeth, which can lead to their separation.
Periodontitis is a disease that not only affects the gums but can also cause diastemas and other dental problems.
6. 🧬 Dental misalignment
When teeth are misaligned or rotated, they can leave spaces between them.
7. 🧬 Hereditary factors
Many times, diastemas are simply a hereditary characteristic. If your parents or grandparents had them, it is likely that you will have them too.
📊 What are the types of diastemas?
There are different types, according to their location and cause:
| Type of diastema | Main characteristics |
|---|---|
| Central diastema | Between the two upper front teeth |
| Lateral diastema | Between premolars or molars, due to tooth loss or migration |
| Temporary diastema (children) | Appears in childhood dentition, usually closes naturally |
| Structural diastema | Due to frenum or bone-tooth disproportion |
| Functional diastema | Due to oral habits, atypical swallowing, or muscular problems |
🤔 When is it necessary to treat a diastema?
It is recommended to visit a dental center when the diastema:
- When it affects self-esteem or the appearance of the smile
- If there are pronunciation problems (phonetic)
- When it causes food accumulation and hinders hygiene
- If it is a consequence of a periodontal disease
- In cases where there is dental malocclusion
- If it is associated with an abnormal frenum that prevents dental joining
🛠 How is a diastema treated?
1. 🦷 Orthodontics
The most recommended option when the diastema is due to dental alignment problems. The following can be used:
- Metal or aesthetic braces
- Invisible aligners (Invisalign or other brands)
Average duration: 6 to 24 months
Estimated price in Peru: from S/ 2,000 (braces) to over S/ 5,000 (aligners)
2. 🦷 Closure with composite resin
Quick and aesthetic treatment. Composite resin of the same color as the tooth is applied to close the space.
- Does not require tooth wear
- Immediate result
- Ideal for small spaces
Price per tooth: S/ 150 to S/ 300
3. 🦷 Dental veneers
Porcelain or composite veneers that cover the front part of the tooth, closing spaces and improving aesthetics.
- Durable and aesthetic solution
- Changes the shape, size, and color of the tooth
Price in Peru:
- Composite: from S/ 300
- Porcelain: from S/ 900
4. 🩺 Frenectomy
If the diastema is caused by an abnormal frenum, a minor surgery can be performed to remove or reposition it. It is generally combined with orthodontics.
| Treatment | Characteristics | Duration | Estimated price in Peru |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orthodontics | Correction of dental alignment | 6 to 24 months | S/ 2,000 to S/ 5,000 |
| Closure with composite resin | Quick and aesthetic closure | Immediate result | S/ 150 to S/ 300 |
| Dental veneers | Durable and aesthetic solution | – | Composite: S/ 300, Porcelain: S/ 900 |
| Frenectomy | Minor surgery for abnormal frenum | – | Combines with other treatments |
🤔 Does the diastema in children need treatment?
In many cases, diastemas in children are temporary and close naturally. However, if they persist after the age of 11 or 12, it is advisable to conduct an evaluation at a dental office to rule out anatomical problems or persistent oral habits.
Early evaluation in children can prevent future complications and ensure a healthy smile.
The diastema is not always a dental health problem, but it can have aesthetic and functional implications. The important thing is to identify the specific cause and consult with a dentist to determine if treatment is needed and what is the most appropriate.
In Peru, there are multiple accessible options to close diastemas and improve the smile: orthodontics, resin, veneers, or minor surgery. The best choice will depend on your specific case, your age, and your aesthetic goals.
