A gap between two teeth is called a diastema. Gaps between the two upper front teeth are the most familiar example, but a diastema can appear anywhere along either dental arch.
Many small children have gappy teeth — it’s a normal stage of development that often resolves once the adult teeth come through. In adults, persistent gaps can be left as they are or closed using a range of dental treatments. Some patients specifically want to keep their gap; others prefer it closed.
Information on this page is general and not a substitute for a clinical assessment. Suitability, treatment time and cost are confirmed in writing after an in-person consultation with a GDC-registered dentist. Outcomes vary between patients.
A peg lateral is when one of the upper lateral incisors (immediately next to the front teeth) is unusually small and pointed. Because it’s undersized, gaps can appear on either side. It can be reshaped with composite bonding, veneers, crowns or — if the tooth is missing entirely — a dental implant.
Fixed braces. Reliable for closing larger gaps and addressing any underlying alignment issues at the same time. Followed by retainers to prevent the gap reopening.
Clear aligners. Near-invisible, removable trays. Often very effective for closing mild and moderate gaps, including diastemas between the upper front teeth. Suitability is confirmed after a 3D scan.
Composite bonding. A tooth-coloured composite resin is shaped directly onto the teeth in a single visit to make them slightly wider and close the gap. Less invasive than porcelain veneers and generally more affordable. Longevity varies between patients — with good oral hygiene, regular hygiene visits and care over diet and habits (such as nail biting), bonding commonly lasts several years before any touch-up is needed.
Porcelain veneers.Thin custom shells bonded to the front of the teeth, slightly wider than the natural tooth so they meet across the gap. Two visits are usually required. Veneers are durable but involve some removal of healthy enamel and aren’t reversible.
Bonding or veneers vs. orthodontics. Bonding and veneers cover a small gap; aligners and braces close it by moving the teeth. For more than one or two small gaps, orthodontic treatment is usually preferred. Your clinician will talk through the trade-offs in writing before treatment starts.
Veneers vs. composite bonding for closing small gaps (general guide)
| Porcelain veneers | Composite bonding | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Custom shells slightly wider than the natural tooth, bonded over the front surface. | Tooth-coloured composite added directly to the tooth to widen it. |
| Visits | Usually two — preparation, then fitting after the lab makes them. | Usually one visit. |
| Strength / longevity | Generally strong and long-lasting; outcomes vary with care. | Less durable than porcelain; periodic touch-ups expected; longevity varies with diet, habits and oral hygiene. |
| Tooth preparation | Some healthy enamel is removed — not reversible. | Minimal preparation; more conservative. |
| Best for | Small gaps where a long-term cosmetic result is wanted. | Small gaps where a less invasive, faster result is wanted. |
Related conditions
FAQs
Not always. Many people have a small diastema with no functional issues at all, and some patients specifically want to keep theirs. Treatment is generally a personal choice unless the gap is part of a wider bite or gum-disease problem.
Yes — clear aligners are often a good option for closing small to moderate gaps, and can be combined with light bonding to refine the final shape if needed.
They can if retainers aren't worn as instructed. Wearing retainers exactly as prescribed — usually long-term, often only at night — is the most reliable way to keep gaps closed.
No. Tying elastic bands around teeth to close gaps is unsafe and can cause permanent damage to the teeth and supporting bone. Always close gaps under the supervision of a GDC-registered clinician.
Sometimes. As we age, teeth and gums change subtly, and small gaps can become more noticeable. A clinical assessment can confirm whether the change is normal or related to gum disease or other factors.
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London Braces is part of Medical and Dental Limited. Our South Kensington clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC location ID 1-20629579981). All clinicians are registered with the General Dental Council.
