Diastema
Pronunciation: dy-uh-STEE-muh
A gap or space between two adjacent teeth, most commonly referring to the midline space between the maxillary central incisors.
Full Definition
A diastema (plural: diastemas or diastemata) is documented in millimetres and its aetiology noted, as causes may include a low frenal attachment, tooth-size discrepancy, habit, or missing teeth. In orthodontic records, the term most frequently refers to the upper central incisor midline diastema, but the location should always be specified. Editors should preserve the correct plural form: 'diastemas' is acceptable in modern British clinical writing, though 'diastemata' remains in formal academic texts. The term should not be used interchangeably with 'spacing', which implies generalised space across the arch rather than a localised gap.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the location of the diastema; use 'diastemas' as the standard British plural in clinical documents, noting 'diastemata' in academic contexts.
In Context
- "A 3 mm upper midline diastema was noted, with a low frenal attachment identified as a contributing factor." — Clinical assessment report
- "Post-treatment records confirmed closure of the diastema and symmetrical spacing of the anterior teeth." — End-of-treatment record