Also known as: dental spacing, spaces between teeth, gap-toothed smile, widely spaced teeth, extra spacing between teeth, diastema

Gaps between teeth can be a normal part of dental development, especially in baby teeth or during certain stages as permanent teeth erupt. In some children, spacing simply reflects natural jaw growth and may improve as more teeth come in. In others, gaps may stay noticeable or widen over time, especially when tooth size, eruption patterns, or oral habits affect how the teeth line up.

Because spacing can be either normal or a sign that the bite or smile is developing unevenly, context matters. Larger gaps between adult teeth, spaces that appear suddenly, or gaps linked with missing teeth or bite changes may deserve closer evaluation. Early assessment can help determine whether the spacing should simply be monitored or whether orthodontic guidance may be helpful later.

Possible Causes of Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth are commonly associated with:

  • Genetics and natural spacing – Some children naturally have more room between teeth because of jaw size, tooth size, or normal spacing patterns in the developing smile.

  • Missing, small, or delayed-erupting teeth – If a tooth is absent, undersized, or delayed in coming in, extra space may remain between nearby teeth and make gaps more noticeable.

  • Oral habits or tongue pressure – Thumb sucking, pacifier use, or frequent tongue pressure against the teeth can affect tooth position and contribute to spacing over time.

  • Bite and jaw development changes – As the bite develops, differences in jaw growth or tooth alignment can influence how evenly the teeth fill the arch and whether spaces remain open.

Treatments for Gaps Between Teeth

Depending on the cause and severity of gaps between teeth, treatment may include:

  • Braces – Braces can close excess spaces, guide teeth into better alignment, and improve how the bite fits together when gaps are part of broader orthodontic development.
  • Invisalign – For some kids and teens, Invisalign may help close mild to moderate gaps by gradually moving teeth into better position with clear aligners that are removable and easier to keep clean.
  • Angel Aligner – Angel Aligner is another clear-aligner option that may be used to reduce spacing and improve alignment when a child is an appropriate candidate.

When to See an Orthodontist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has gaps that seem unusually wide or are becoming more noticeable as adult teeth erupt
  • Has spaces along with missing teeth, delayed eruption, or teeth coming in out of position
  • Has bite changes, speech concerns, or trouble chewing comfortably
  • Is becoming more self-conscious about spacing or how the smile is developing

Related Symptoms

Concerned About Gaps Between Teeth?

Gaps between teeth are often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.