By Orthodontic Gallery on Diastema and Orthodontics.
What is a Diastema?
A diastema is a gap between two teeth, commonly the upper central incisors, however a gap between two teeth can occur between any teeth.
In this blog we will look at the treatment of a diastema caused by an oversized labial frenum (the tissue connecting the lip to the gum). If the frenum continues to grow throughout a child’s development it can cause a gap to form between their central incisors.
Diastema in Children.
When considering treatment to close diastema it is important to remember that it is a common physiological feature in children’s detention (usually between the ages of 7 – 15 years) and in some cases it can close on its own after the eruption of their permanent maxillary canines.
You should consult your dentist who will be able to advise you on if and when you should treat the problem. If they advise you to visit an Orthodontist they may place your child under review until treatment is required.
Frenectomy
For some cases, an Orthodontist may recommend a frenectomy. This is when the thin band of tissue that connects the upper lip to the gum (the maxillary labial frenum) is released from between two teeth in order to help close any gaps in them.
The procedure can be performed on both children and adults and is usually painless. It involves cutting and lifting this tissue with a laser or traditional scalpel and then suturing the gum tissue together. This helps to close any gaps and prevent relapse where Diastema is treated with Orthodontic treatment.
Closure with Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment is an effective way to fix a diastema or gap in your teeth. At Orthodontic Gallery we offer a wide range of brace options and variety of techniques to straighten your teeth and ultimately close any gap between them.
If you would like to know more about treating a diastema with Orthodontic treatment get in touch today.
At Orthodontic Gallery we offer Free Consultations with our expert treatment coordinators to advise you on the best treatment options for you and answer questions you have, before you make your final decision.