A diastema, or gap between teeth, is usually a natural part of a child’s development. For many children, the gap between their two front teeth closes with the eruption of their canine teeth. But, other kids might need a little orthodontic help to close the gap once and for all.

Today, we’re diving into how we treat children with a gap between their teeth and discuss if treatment can be done without braces. (Spoiler Alert: It can!) Read on to find out how we can transform your child’s gaps into a healthy, beautiful smile.

Diastema Causes

Remember your child’s toothy grin as a toddler? Those gaps between baby teeth are completely normal as the jaw continues to develop. Issues arise, though, when the gaps persist despite adult teeth erupting.

Anatomy is to blame for many gaps. For instance, some children naturally have small teeth or a thick frenum (fancy for a lip or tongue tie) that may create gaps between the teeth.

Behaviors can also cause gaps between the teeth. If your child is prone to thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or poor dental hygiene, they’re more likely to need treatment for the gaps between their teeth down the road.

How We Treat Diastema

Timing is everything when it comes to determining the best type of treatment for your child, so the sooner your child can see an orthodontist at Gorman & Bunch Orthodontics the better. If you’re not sure when your child should see an orthodontist, find out the best age to start orthodontic treatment.

Fortunately, there are a few options when it comes to treating the gaps between your child’s teeth. Braces are the most common tool to correct large gaps between the teeth and can simultaneously correct other issues, like straightening teeth and correcting bites. Metal braces close the gaps in the mouth by adjusting the position of diastema teeth once the adult teeth have erupted.