Spacing (Gaps Between Teeth)
Conditions We Treat with Premium Invisible Aligners
Spacing—also known as diastema or generalised dental spacing—is a very common orthodontic concern where gaps appear between two or more teeth. These spaces can range from small, subtle separations to more noticeable gaps that affect the overall harmony of the smile. At Pro Aligners, spacing is one of the most predictable and straightforward conditions to correct using our advanced, custom-made invisible aligners.
Many patients seek treatment for spacing because the gaps affect their confidence, impact their smile line, or cause issues such as food trapping and gum irritation. Whether the concern is aesthetic or functional, clear aligners provide a discreet, precise, and comfortable solution that delivers long-lasting results.
What Causes Gaps Between Teeth?
Spacing can develop for several reasons, and understanding the cause helps us design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
1. Genetics and Natural Tooth Size
Every smile is unique. Some people naturally have smaller teeth or a wider dental arch, creating visible gaps. Genetics play a key role, and if your parents have spacing, you may too.
2. Large Dental Arch
When the jawbone is slightly wider than average, teeth may be too spread out to make contact with each other.
3. Missing Teeth
If a tooth is missing—either naturally (congenitally absent) or after extraction—neighbouring teeth can drift into the space, creating additional gaps across the arch.
4. Tongue Thrusting
A habit where the tongue pushes forward or against the teeth during swallowing or speech can gradually force teeth apart.
5. Gum Disease
Periodontal issues can cause changes in the supporting bone, leading to teeth spreading out or drifting apart over time.
6. Frenum Attachment
A thick or low-attached labial frenum (the tissue between the front teeth) can prevent the front teeth from meeting, leading to a central gap, often called a midline diastema.
7. Orthodontic Relapse
Spacing can return after braces if retainers were not worn, or if the teeth were not stabilised properly after treatment.
Common Symptoms
Spacing can be mild or more noticeable, but even small gaps can create dental and lifestyle concerns. Patients often experience:
- Visible gaps between one or several teeth
- Food easily getting trapped between open spaces
- Aesthetic concerns about smile symmetry
- Speech changes, including slight whistling
- Gum irritation or bleeding between spaced teeth
- Teeth appearing uneven or undersized
- Loss of bite support in certain areas of the mouth
While many patients seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, spacing can affect oral health if left untreated.
Why Treat Spacing?
Closing spaces provides both aesthetic and functional benefits:
- Enhanced smile aesthetics and confidence
- Improved oral hygiene and reduced food trapping
- Better bite support and tooth stability
- Prevention of further drifting or spacing
- Speech improvements in some cases
- More balanced and proportionate smile line
Start Your Smile Transformation
If gaps between your teeth are affecting your confidence or oral health, our clear aligner treatment can give you a balanced, harmonious smile—discreetly and comfortably.
Find out if you're suitable for Pro Aligners.
Contact Us
We're here to help you achieve your perfect smile. Reach out to us today.
Call Us
020 3137 5212Email Us
info@proaligners.co.ukVisit Our Clinic
20 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London
SW7 3DL
- Monday9am - 6pm
- Tuesday9am - 8pm
- Wednesday9am - 6pm
- Thursday9am - 8pm
- Friday8am - 5pm
- Saturday10am - 4pm
- SundayClosed
How to find us
We are conveniently located in the heart of South Kensington, just a short walk from the station. Our clinic is easily accessible via public transport from all parts of London.
Nearest Tube Station
South Kensington (1 min walk)
Bus Routes
Stops nearby: 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430, C1
Parking
Pay & Display parking is available on Old Brompton Road. Nearest car park: Harrington Road Car Park (5 min walk).
Regulated & Registered
ProAligners is proudly part of Medical and Dental Ltd. registered with the UK's leading healthcare regulatory bodies, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and professionalism.
