Diastema
Pronunciation: dy-a-STEE-ma
A gap or space between two adjacent teeth, most commonly referring to the midline gap between the maxillary central incisors.
Full Definition
A diastema is an inter-proximal space between two adjacent teeth that exceeds normal contact dimensions. While any tooth gap can technically be termed a diastema, the word is most frequently used in clinical and patient-facing documentation to describe a midline gap between the upper central incisors. The term appears in treatment-planning notes, orthodontic case records, and cosmetic consultation reports. Editors should be aware that the plural form is 'diastemata' in formal clinical writing, though 'diastemata' and 'diastemas' are both encountered.
Usage
Usage note: In formal clinical prose, prefer 'diastemata' as the plural; accept 'diastemas' in patient-facing materials.
In Context
- "The patient's chief complaint was a persistent diastema between the upper central incisors." — Cosmetic consultation note
- "Orthodontic treatment planning documented multiple diastemata in the anterior maxillary arch." — Orthodontic case record