Widely-spaced teeth

Also known as: increased spaces between teeth, diastemata

What are widely spaced teeth?

Spaces between teeth in children and adolescents can be a temporary condition related to normal growth and development of adult teeth. However, in other situations it can be a sign of a medical condition when found in combination with other signs and symptoms.
 

What might cause widely spaced teeth?

Potential causes of widely spaced teeth include the following:

• A jaw, mouth or teeth injury
• Missing teeth
• Gum disease
• Large frenum
• Thumb sucking
• Acromegaly
• Morquio syndrome
• Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

What are the treatment options?

In many cases, widely spaced teeth are a normal part of growth and development and will not cause any other symptoms. If your appearance bothers you, you can talk to a dentist or orthodontist about your treatment options.
 

When should you seek medical attention?

Any teeth that appear to be coming in abnormally are worth a visit with a dentist or doctor. Be sure to make the appointment a priority if the widely spaced teeth are accompanied by any other concerning symptoms.
 

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Reviewed by: Paula Miranda Bucio, DMD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:50 PM