Diastema
Pronunciation: dy-AS-teh-mah
A gap or space between two adjacent teeth, most commonly referring to the midline gap between the upper central incisors.
Full Definition
A diastema is any abnormal space between two teeth that would normally be in contact. In clinical writing, the term most often describes the midline separation between the maxillary central incisors, though it can occur anywhere in the arch. Editors must note that the plural is 'diastemata' in formal clinical text, though 'diastemas' is increasingly accepted in UK and US dental journals. The term should not be confused with a developmental spacing, which is physiologically normal in the mixed dentition. It appears in both orthodontic and restorative treatment records.
Usage
Usage note: Verify plural form with house style; 'diastemata' is preferred in academic journals, 'diastemas' in clinical correspondence.
In Context
- "The patient presented with a 3 mm midline diastema that she wished to close with composite bonding." — New patient assessment form
- "Post-orthodontic relapse had resulted in recurrence of the diastema within six months of retainer removal." — Orthodontic review letter