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Gaps between teeth — whether a single diastema or generalized spacing — are correctable with clear aligners or braces at any age.
Spacing (gaps between teeth), also called diastema when between the front teeth, occurs when teeth are too small for the jaw or when teeth are missing. Gaps can trap food and affect bite function. Treatment with clear aligners or braces closes gaps and creates an even, healthy smile. Most spacing cases are among the fastest orthodontic treatments to complete.
Dental spacing refers to gaps or extra space between two or more teeth. When the gap occurs specifically between the two upper front teeth, it is clinically called a diastema. When gaps are present throughout the arch, it is referred to as generalized spacing.
Spacing is one of the most common orthodontic conditions and can occur in both children and adults. The most frequent cause is a size discrepancy — teeth that are naturally smaller than average relative to the jawbone leave extra room in the arch. A thick or low-attaching labial frenum (the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum) can also push the front teeth apart. Other causes include missing teeth (congenitally absent or extracted), tongue thrusting habits that push teeth outward, and periodontal disease that weakens the bone supporting the teeth.
While some patients view spacing as purely cosmetic, gaps between teeth can create functional problems as well. Food impaction in open spaces increases the risk of gum irritation and decay. Gaps can also affect speech — particularly "s" and "th" sounds — and may cause adjacent teeth to drift further apart over time. Orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, Invisalign, or braces closes gaps predictably and prevents further shifting.
Noticeable spaces between two or more teeth, most commonly between the upper front incisors (midline diastema).
Food consistently gets stuck in gaps during meals, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of gum irritation.
Gaps — especially between front teeth — can cause air to escape during speech, leading to a lisp on "s" and "th" sounds.
Many patients with spacing avoid smiling fully in photos or social situations due to the appearance of gaps.
Exposed gum tissue between spaced teeth is more vulnerable to irritation, inflammation, and periodontal issues over time.
Dr. Brandon Zipper develops a customized plan to close gaps based on the number, location, and size of spaces, as well as your overall bite and oral health.
We capture 3D digital scans, panoramic X-rays, and clinical photographs to map every gap precisely. Dr. Zipper identifies the cause of spacing — whether it is tooth size, missing teeth, a frenum attachment, or a habit — and explains all treatment options.
Clear aligners like Invisalign are often the top choice for spacing because they gently and predictably close gaps with a nearly invisible look. For complex cases with spacing plus bite issues, braces may offer more precise control. For children, monitoring or early intervention may be recommended.
Teeth are moved together gradually over the course of treatment, with progress check-ups every 4 to 8 weeks. Spacing cases often progress faster than other orthodontic issues — some single-gap cases resolve in as few as 3 to 6 months.
After gaps are closed, custom retainers are essential to prevent spaces from reopening. Dr. Zipper typically recommends bonded retainers for spacing cases, as teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions.
Gaps between teeth affect people of all ages. Treatment timing and approach vary based on the patient's dental development and the underlying cause of spacing.
The cost of closing gaps depends on the number and size of spaces, the treatment method chosen, and whether additional bite correction is needed.
Simple diastema cases treated with clear aligners often fall on the lower end of this range and may qualify for express aligner programs with shorter timelines. More complex generalized spacing combined with bite issues may approach the upper end. Most dental insurance plans with orthodontic benefits contribute $1,000 to $2,500. We offer flexible monthly payment plans and interest-free financing. Your exact investment is confirmed at your free consultation.
Gaps between teeth can result from several factors. The most common is a size discrepancy — teeth that are too small relative to the jawbone create extra space in the arch. A large labial frenum (the tissue connecting the lip to the gum above the front teeth) can push the upper incisors apart. Missing teeth, tongue thrusting habits, and gum disease that weakens bone support can also cause or worsen spacing.
In children, a gap between the upper front teeth may close naturally when the permanent canine teeth erupt around age 11 to 12. However, if the gap persists after the canines come in, it is unlikely to close without orthodontic treatment. In teens and adults, gaps do not close on their own and often widen over time — especially if gum disease or tooth loss is involved. A free consultation with Dr. Zipper can confirm.
Clear aligners like Invisalign and Spark are often the best treatment for closing gaps because they apply gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth together predictably. Aligners are especially effective for mild to moderate spacing and offer a nearly invisible treatment experience. For complex cases involving gaps combined with bite issues, traditional braces may provide better control. Dr. Zipper recommends the best option based on your specific case.
Spacing cases are among the fastest orthodontic treatments to complete. A single diastema (front tooth gap) may close in as little as 3 to 6 months with clear aligners. Generalized spacing across multiple teeth typically takes 8 to 16 months. Complex cases combining spacing with bite correction may take 12 to 20 months. Dr. Zipper provides a personalized timeline at your free consultation after reviewing 3D digital scans.
Yes, a gap between the upper front teeth is very common in children and is often called the "ugly duckling stage." This midline diastema appears when permanent central incisors erupt before the lateral incisors and canines. In many cases the gap closes naturally as the remaining permanent teeth come in. The AAO recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 so Dr. Zipper can monitor whether the gap is resolving on its own.
Most dental insurance plans with orthodontic benefits cover a portion of spacing treatment — typically $1,000 to $2,500 toward the total cost. Coverage applies whether gaps are treated with braces or clear aligners. Zipper Orthodontics accepts most major insurance providers and our team verifies your benefits before treatment starts. We also offer flexible monthly payment plans and interest-free financing to fit any budget.
Dr. Brandon Zipper, DMD, MS — board-certified orthodontist and AAO member — treats spacing and gap teeth for patients of all ages in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and throughout South Florida.
