What is the Treatment for Diastema (Split Tooth/Intermittent tooth )?
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Treatment of diastema is a treatment method in which the gap between two teeth is closed with the use of adhesive restorative materials in cases of narrowness. Decongestant is the treatment method. It is also known as Intermittent / Discrete dental treatment. These gaps are sometimes only in one area (between two teeth), sometimes between several teeth. Decals are Decals.
What is a split tooth (diestama), why does it occur and how is it treated with permanent aesthetics? Prof. Dr. Learn in detail the steps of Composite filling (composite lamina), porcelain lamina, orthodontics and frenectomy with the smile design applied by Birkan Taha Ozkan at the Mersin Yenişehir clinic. Dental aesthetics and speech function are corrected Decently together.
What is a Split Tooth (Diestama)? Why Is It Caused?
Your smile gives direction to your social life and self-confidence. A gap between your front teeth—a grin in the mouth, incomplete, a problem of Decussation called “diestama”—can not only cause aesthetic anxiety, but also cause serious discomfort in speech function. I’m Prof. Dr. Birkan Taha Özkan; I am sharing our discrete dental treatments combined with digital smile design, minimally invasive technique and physician’s craftsmanship that push the boundaries of “dental aesthetics” in my clinic in Mersin Yenişehir. Below you will find every detail about ”split tooth (diestama) treatment”.
- What is a Split Tooth (Diestama)?
When we say ”Decussated tooth”, the gap (diestama) usually seen between the front two teeth comes to mind. Latin “diastema” is a term that refers to the separation of the teeth from each other; in the vernacular, different spellings appear as diestama and diastema. Simply to define:
A Decussated tooth is a condition in which there is an unaesthetic, unwanted gap between two teeth (mostly upper incisors) in the mouth. If the size of the gap is usually greater than 0.5 mm, it is considered that there is a Decoupling between the teeth.
This gap is not only an aesthetic defect, but can also lead to problems such as speech problems (difficulty making the Deco, “th” sound), putting too much stress on the jaw joint, and food getting stuck between the teeth. When it occurs in children, it can often be a temporary condition due to the stage of milk tooth loss, but most often it becomes permanent due to genetics, habits, or gum problems.
- Causes of Split Teeth (Diestama)
2.1. Genetic Factors and Jaw-Tooth Incompatibility
* The Size of the Jawbone, etc. Tooth Size: Gaps form between the teeth in patients where the jaw structure is wide and the teeth are relatively small. Decubitus is a relatively small tooth size. This condition can be inherited genetically from the family. The jaw-tooth ratio is a congenital variation that begins in childhood.
*Family History of Diestama: A split tooth that is seen exactly in the mother, father, or grandparents may be inherited. Genetic transition directly affects the arrangement of teeth in the jaw.
2.2. Missing or Smaller than Normal Teeth
*Lack of Upper Lateral Incisors (Peg Lateral): The upper lateral incisors (the teeth right next to the canine teeth) may be smaller than normal or missing. This causes the formation of a Decussation between the front two teeth, called the “valley state”.
*Variations in Tooth Size: In some individuals, a tooth may develop into a genetically smaller (such as “peg lateral”) form, which leaves a wide gap between neighboring teeth. Dec.
2.3. Large Labial Frenum (Gum Curtain)
* The labial frenum( gum curtain), which extends from the inner part of the upper lip to the gum tissue, is normally in the form of a thin band. But in some people, this Decongestant tissue develops excessively and keeps a place between the teeth like a thick band. This Dec Decussation leads to an increase in the intertangular spacing by sticking to the intertangular gums and jawbone. December 19, 2016.
* Frenectomy (Gum Curtain Operation) Necessity: If this tissue forcibly keeps the gap between the teeth open, only orthodontic or lamina Decontamination may not be able to close the gap permanently. In this case, frenectomy (gingival curtain surgery) is a must. It is a surgical procedure and should be performed under sterile conditions.
2.4. Gum Diseases (Periodontal Problems)
- Periodontitis and Jaw Bone Loss: Advanced gingivitis (“periodontitis”) dissolves the bone tissue surrounding the teeth. The loss of supporting tissue leads to the teeth moving away from each other. In addition, in some cases, it leads to the opening of the teeth as if in a fan shape and unbalanced elongations. This condition causes an increase in December between the teeth by Deconstructing the tooth sequences.
- Gingivitis and Gingival Tissue Deterioration: Gum retraction can occur even with early-stage gingivitis. When the gum is Decayed, the gap between the teeth visibly increases.
2.5. Incorrect Swallowing Reflex or Tongue Thrust (Tongue Thrust)
* Tongue Thrusting Habit: Some patients develop a habit of pushing their teeth forward instead of backward during natural swallowing. This condition causes the tongue to constantly put pressure on the front incisors and, over time, a gap between the Decussations forms.
* Necessity of Speech and Swallowing Therapy: It is important to plan speech and swallowing therapy not only to close the teeth; but also to correct the swallowing habit.
2.6. Bad Habits: Finger Sucking, Lip Biting
* Childhood Finger Sucking: The habit of finger sucking, which continues especially for psychological reasons, causes the upper incisors to be pushed forward. This is a common factor in the formation of diestama.
* Severe Lip Biting or Pen Biting: Constant lip or pen biting can also cause diestama as a result of applying abnormal force to the front teeth.
2.7. Premature Loss of Early Baby Teeth
* Milk Tooth Deficiency and Displacement: When milk teeth are pulled out early in children, permanent teeth from below may be displaced. This temporary separation usually closes when the permanent teeth are maintained and aligned, but sometimes a tendency to permanent diestama occurs if it is not followed up.
2.8. Changes in Tooth Position Due to Trauma
* Traumas due to bumps, falls or sports accidents can trigger the displacement of teeth, the opening gaps become permanent. Misaligned teeth can be the cause of diestama.
- Aesthetic and Functional Effects of a Split Tooth (Diestama)
A split tooth (diestama) not only causes a feeling of “malaise”, it can cause the following problems both aesthetically and functionally:
3.1. Aesthetic Concerns:
Self-confidence decreases, smile embarrassment and social shyness develop.
* Creates an uncomfortable image in photos and social media posts.
3.2. Speech Problems:
* Decal Speech (Lisibility Disorder): When removing letters such as ”S, Z, S, Ç, J”, air leaks between the teeth and causes a decal sound.
* The penetration of the language into the space leads to a deficiency in letters that force the t-sound, such as “T, D, L, N”.
3.3. Difficulty Chewing and Biting:
- Although it is not a big problem in the short term, food shredding efficiency decreases in the long term.
- It puts too much strain on the side teeth, which can lead to premature wear and sensitivity.
3.4.Gum and Periodontal Problems:
* Food residue is often stuck to the diestama area, triggering gingivitis.
* Gum retractions may accelerate as the cavities grow.
3.5.Jaw Joint (TMJ) Loading;
* Unstable closing, insertion imposes excessive stress.
* Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems may occur in the long term.
As a result, the diestama problem is not only an “aesthetic defect”; it must also be treated to maintain a healthier chewing, speech and bone tissue.
- Methods of Treatment of Split Teeth (Diestama)
Below, Prof. at our clinic in Mersin Yenişehir. Dr. You will see the comprehensive, digitally supported and aesthetically oriented discrete dental treatment protocols implemented by Birkan Taha Özkan. Our goal in every case is to offer minimally invasive, long-lasting results by preserving the natural tissue.
4.1. Composite Filling (Composite Lamina) (Bonding– – Fast and Minimal Intervention)
❖ What is Composite Filling (Composite Lamina)?
Composite lamina (bonding) is colloquially known as “diestama closure with composite filling”. It is a method in which gaps are removed by applying a tooth-colored composite resin material directly to the tooth surface.
❖ In Which Cases Is It Suitable?
* Enamel is a protective process, It is innocent compared to coatings
* Small gaps between Deceleration 0.5–2 mm.
- Cases where there is no need for serious changes in the natural size of the teeth, only the “December” should be closed.
* Aesthetic needs for which the patient demands a quick solution, which can be completed in a single session.
❖ Advantages of Composite Filler (Composite Lamina)
* Completed in One Session: You can open your teeth and smile on the appointment day.
* Minimum Enamel Loss: The composite layer is added without abrasion of the tooth.
* Hekim Craftsmanship: Natural enamel tissues are imitated with handwork; your smile looks “symmetrical and vibrant”.
- Low Cost and Easy Repair: Regional repairs can be made in case of possible fractures, there is no need to completely renew.
4.2. Porcelain Lamina (Leaf Porcelain) – Maximum Aesthetics and Durability
❖ What is Porcelain Lamina?
Porcelain lamina (leaf porcelain, ”veneer”) are 0.2–0.4 mm thick glass‑ceramic coatings glued to the front surface of the teeth. Aesthetics is the art of dentistry; it reflects the tooth shape, color, light transmittance very closely to natural enamel.
❖ In Which Cases Is It Suitable?
* Medium‑grade gaps in the diestama range of 2-5 mm.
* If the tooth color is too yellow, a brighter smile is desired.
- If there are also tooth rotations (slight rotation) or small perplexities, the lamina can close all these deficiencies at once.
❖ Advantages of Porcelain Lamina
* Superior Aesthetics: It gives the closest result to natural enamel with its light transmittance and transparent structure.
* Durability and Color Stability: Without changing color for years, the risk of breakage is minimal.
* Minimal Enamel Etching: Only a very light enamel cut keeps the tooth strong.
* Suitable For Complex Cases: Diestama + slight rotation + discoloration is corrected in a single session.
4.3. Orthodontic Treatment – Permanent Alignment with Wire and Transparent Plaques
❖ What is Orthodontics and Its Role in a Split Tooth
Orthodontic treatment provides ideal closure both functionally and aesthetically by checking the location of the teeth. In particular, diestama is the most permanent solution for wide gaps above 6 mm or jaw-tooth mismatch.
❖ In Which Cases Is It Preferred?
* Wide Diestama (≥ 3-5 mm): Gaps large enough to cause tone difference or biomechanical problems with coating techniques such as composite or lamina.
- If there is a Decongestment in the Jaw Structure: The relationship between the lower and upper jaw, if the bite angle deviates from normal.
- If it is Accompanied by Confusion: the position of more than one tooth is distorted, if the diestama is combined with this disorder.
❖ Advantages of Orthodontic Treatment
* Permanent Solution: The diestama is completely closed alami way.
* Functional Balance: Chewing, speaking, closing function is made ideal.
* Aesthetic Options: Social life will not be disrupted with transparent plaque or aesthetic ceramic brackets.
* Monitoring with Digital Recordings: Every stage is recorded digitally; the result guarantee is high.
4.4. Frenectomy (Gum Curtain Operation ) – The Necessity for Permanent Closure of a Separated Tooth
❖ What is the Gum Curtain and How Does It Play a Role?
* Labial frenum is a soft tissue band extending to the gum part of the upper lip. Under normal conditions, it is thin and flexible; it does not form gaps.
- A Large or Over-Developed Frenum clings tightly to the gum tissue between the front two teeth, causing it to remain permanently open to the Decumbent.
❖ How is Frenectomy Performed?
Local Anesthesia and Minimal Surgery: The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Gum curtain is an operation to remove gum tissue with a laser. There is no bleeding at all, we apply a protocol that does not require stitches or is closed with several small sutures. Healing agents are applied to the gum area and it is ensured that it heals in a shorter time.
❖ Advantages of Frenectomy
*Permanent Closure of the Diestama: Provides support until the teeth come closer together because the frenum pressure is lifted.
*Minimally Invasive: Very short time and comfortable recovery with laser.
*Aesthetics and Function Together: When the Deceleration closes, the gum shape also regains its natural line.
- Treatment Planning: Examination, Radiography and Oral Preparation
Every successful dental treatment starts with the right planning. The steps we follow in our clinic:
Detailed Patient History and Photo Documentation:
* Family history, gum problems, habits, trauma history are recorded.
* Facial profile photos, front and side faces of teeth, bite angles are archived digitally.
Radiographic Examination: Panoramic and Periapical X-rays:
* A panoramic X-ray is taken to examine the position of the tooth roots, the height of the jaw bone, the condition of the gums.
* Suspicious gum pockets and the length-mold condition of the roots are detailed with periapical films.
* If necessary, bone anatomy and foramen structures are monitored with CBCT (3D tomography).
Gum and Periodontal Examination:
- If there is an inflammatory condition, periodontal treatment (deep cleansing, scaling, laser periodontal therapy) is planned first.
Routine Oral Cleaning (Tartar Cleaning):
- Before diestam intervention, a healthy gum floor is needed that is free of tartar and plaque.
- After polishing, the surface of the tooth becomes shiny and clean; the bonding or lamina material’s adhesion surface improves.Jul.
Digital Smile Simulation and Patient Approval:
* The patient is shown “before‑after” case photos and final approval is obtained about which method to choose.
- Advanced Complications That May Occur If Left Untreated
In the long term, the following problems occur when a split tooth (diestama) is not treated:
* Chronic Gum Diseases: Cavities lead to the compression of food particles. This accelerates the accumulation of plaque and tartar, triggers gingivitis.
* Functional Disorders: Speech problems become permanent. If the “blockage in the voice” and “slurred speech” are not corrected at a November age, habits will settle in the tongue and lip muscles.
* Jaw Joint (TMJ) Problems: Unstable closure puts an asymmetric load on the jaw joint. Over time, symptoms such as TMJ pains, headaches, squeaking‑clicking in front of the ear (click sound) develop.
* Aesthetic and Psychological Effects: Loss of self-confidence, social withdrawal, shyness towards photography and public speaking.
* Tooth Abrasions and Fractures: The side teeth come under extra stress to compensate for the closure, which leads to abrasions and microcracks.
For the above reasons, the problem of diestama ceases to be “just a gap”; it turns into a chronic problem that affects the entire oral dental health. Early intervention prevents more costly and complex treatments in the future.
- Prof. Dr. Birkan Taha Özkan’s Philosophy and Craftsmanship in Discrete Dental Treatment
“Every tooth is a millimeter work of art. For me, ’dental aesthetics‘ is not just whitening or closing gaps; it is the ability to integrate ’smile design’ with facial anatomy.”
I am, Prof . Dr. Birkan Taha Özkan, I consider aesthetic dentistry as “the art of medicine”. When planning the treatment of a split tooth (diestama), I apply the following principles:
“When the color of the tooth, its shape, the gum line and the smile line come together, a ‘natural work of art’ emerges. Dec. Every detail of this work is shaped according to your facial anatomy.”
“The most important reference for us is a happy patient smile. Every discrete dental treatment in our clinic is like the ‘birth of a work of art’. We make our hands, eyes and digital instruments speak every day to give this work its due.”
Let’s Plan The Right Split Tooth (Diestama) Solution For You Together!
If your separated teeth (diestama) bother you both aesthetically and functionally, we are waiting for you at our clinic in Mersin Yenişehir. We solve diestama permanently and naturally with your special smile design, minimally invasive techniques and the artistic dexterity of a physician.
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