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Dental Spacing

What is Diastema?

Dental spacing (also called diastema) refers to unwanted gaps between teeth in the permanent dentition. Some spacing is natural, especially in children, but persistent or large gaps can interfere with function, appearance, and oral health. It may affect chewing, speech, and self-confidence. Recognising and treating spacing early with braces, aligners or other techniques helps prevent complications and improves smile balance.

How does it happen?

Jaw-tooth Size Mismatch

When teeth are smaller relative to jawbone size, natural gaps may form due to lack of contact between teeth.

Oversized Frenum

A thick or low labial frenum (lip tissue) between front teeth can push them apart, preventing gap closure.

Tooth Loss or Impaction

Missing teeth, delayed eruption, or impacted teeth allow adjacent teeth to drift and leave spaces.

Childhood Habits

Tongue thrusting or thumb-sucking exert pressure that pushes teeth apart over time.

What are its side effects?

Food Lodgement

Food Lodgement

Gaps make it easier for food particles to get stuck, increasing risk of cavities and gum inflammation.

Gum Issues

Gum Issues

Spaced teeth are more prone to gingival recession or periodontal pocket formation if not maintained.

Speech Impairment

Speech Impairment

Pronunciation of sounds like “s,” “z,” or “f” may suffer due to airflow through spaces between teeth.

Aesthetic Concerns

Aesthetic Concerns

Visible spacing, especially in front teeth, may lead to self-consciousness or reduced smile confidence.

Tooth Drifting

Tooth Drifting

Adjacent teeth may continue to move unpredictably over time, enlarging the spaces or creating new misalignments.

Bite Problems

Bite Problems

Spacing often goes hand in hand with bite misalignment, which can affect chewing and jaw function.

How can it be fixed?

At AQR Orthodontics Jumeirah, treatment for spacing is personalized based on the cause, age, and overall dental health of the patient.

Preventive / Interceptive Treatment for Kids (6-12 yrs) & Teens (13-18 yrs)

In younger patients, spacing correction focuses on habit removal (e.g. tongue thrust, thumb sucking), frenectomy if frenum causes spacing, monitor eruption patterns, use of space maintainers or partial braces when needed, clear aligners for mild gaps, or simple braces to bring teeth together. Early intervention often avoids extractions.

Comprehensive Treatment in Adults (18+ yrs)

Adults may need full braces or clear aligners to close gaps, possibly with attachments or elastics. If spacing arises from missing teeth, prosthetic replacement (implants or bridges) or restorative techniques (bonding, veneers) may be employed. Periodontal health must be stabilized first, and proper retention is essential to prevent relapse.

Dr AQR

Why choose AQR Orthodontics in Jumeirah?

Expert Diagnosis

Skilled evaluation of spacing cause (genetic, habit, periodontal, dental) ensures personalized treatment.

Modern Tools

Use of digital 3D scanning, imaging, and treatment simulation for precise planning and predictable outcomes.

Flexible Treatment Options

Braces, aligners, restorations or veneers are offered—tailored to age, severity, and patient preferences.

Long-Term Stability

Emphasis on retention, regular follow-ups, and hygiene to maintain results and prevent spacing recurrence

Ready to close the gaps? Schedule a consultation with Dr. AQR today to get a custom dental spacing treatment plan designed for your needs—functional, aesthetic, and confidence-boosting.

Treatments we offer (bite-focused)

Transforming Smiles with Expert Orthodontist in Jumeirah, Dubai

Blog & Patient Education

We regularly publish practical guides for Jumeirah families, including pieces like

Ready to fix Dental Spacing?

Book a consultation at AQR Orthodontics, Jumeirah (Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 2) with Dr. AQR. We’ll assess whether early guidance, aligners/braces, or surgical orthodontics is the most efficient, aesthetic, and stable path for your smile.

  • Call Us: +971 56 882 7870
  • Email Us: info@aqrorthodontics.com

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