Diastema Closure (Gaps Between Teeth) in Singapore
A diastema is a space or gap between two teeth, commonly seen between the upper front teeth. Penn Pacific Dental Center, 160 Robinson Road, near Tanjong Pagar MRT, discusses restorative options such as composite bonding or veneers depending on the size, cause, and location of the gap.
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📍 Near Tanjong Pagar MRT · Singapore CBD · 160 Robinson Road
What Is a Diastema?
A diastema is a visible space between two teeth. It most commonly appears between the upper front teeth but can occur elsewhere in the mouth.
Why Do Gaps Occur?
A diastema can relate to a mismatch between tooth size and jaw size, a labial frenum (the tissue connecting the upper lip and gum) extending between the front teeth, a missing or undersized tooth, the position or angle of the teeth, or gum disease affecting the bone that supports the teeth.
Because these causes lead to different treatment considerations, an assessment is needed before deciding on a suitable approach.
Does Every Gap Need Treatment?
No. A small, stable diastema does not always need treatment, particularly if it does not affect chewing, speech, or oral health. Whether treatment is appropriate, and which option may suit your situation, is discussed during assessment.
How Can a Gap Be Closed?
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding involves shaping tooth-coloured resin onto the sides of the teeth to reduce or close the gap. Depending on the situation, treatment may require little or no removal of natural tooth structure.
Veneers
Veneers are thin coverings placed on the front surface of teeth and may be considered when closing a gap forms part of a broader change to tooth shape, proportion, colour, or surface appearance. Whether veneers are appropriate depends on the size of the gap, existing tooth proportions, bite, and amount of natural tooth structure available. For more on veneers and other cosmetic options, see our cosmetic dental treatments page.
Crowns
Crowns may occasionally be relevant when a tooth already requires full-coverage restoration for other structural or restorative reasons. They would not usually be selected solely to close a simple diastema in otherwise intact teeth.
When Restorative Closure May Not Be Suitable
For some diastemas, particularly larger or more complex spaces, composite bonding or veneers alone may not achieve a suitable result. In some situations, tooth movement (orthodontic treatment) may be considered as part of managing a diastema. Patients interested in this option may wish to seek assessment from an appropriate provider.
Whether restorative treatment is suitable for your gap is discussed as part of your assessment.
What Happens During Composite Bonding
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Assessment of the gap, tooth proportions, gum condition, and bite
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Discussion of the intended tooth shape and amount of space to be reduced or closed
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Shade selection to match the surrounding teeth
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Preparation of the tooth surface for bonding
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Placement and shaping of tooth-coloured composite resin
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Finishing and polishing
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Final bite and contact check
Maintenance
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Maintain regular oral hygiene and routine dental visits
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Avoid biting directly on hard objects with a bonded edge
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Watch for chipping or staining over time
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Have the bonded area reviewed during routine dental examinations and polished when appropriate.
Related concern: black triangles between teeth are spaces that appear near the gumline and may have different causes and treatment considerations. Learn more about black triangles between teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a diastema be closed without braces?
In many cases, composite bonding or veneers can address a diastema without tooth movement, depending on the size of the gap and its cause. Larger or more complex gaps may not be suitable for bonding or veneers alone, which is discussed at assessment.
Does diastema closure hurt?
Composite bonding is generally a minimally invasive procedure. Anaesthesia may not be required in many cases, although this depends on the teeth being treated and the treatment planned.
How long does a bonded diastema closure last?
Composite bonding is not permanent and may require polishing, repair, or replacement over time. Longevity varies depending on bite forces, habits, oral hygiene, staining, and the size and position of the restoration.
Will every diastema respond well to bonding or veneers?
Not every diastema is suitable for bonding or veneers alone. Suitability depends on the size of the gap and its underlying cause, which is why an assessment is needed before treatment is planned.
Is Penn Pacific Dental Center near Tanjong Pagar MRT?
Yes. The clinic is at 160 Robinson Road, #05-14 SBF Center, a short walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT (East-West Line). It is also accessible from Shenton Way MRT (Thomson-East Coast Line) and Telok Ayer MRT (Downtown Line).
