Treating a maxillary midline diastema in adult patients: A general dentist's perspective

Abstract

Background: A maxillary midline diastema (MMD) often is a primary concern of patients during a dental consultation. Although an MMD can be transient owing to the developing dentition and, thus, requires no active treatment, management of MMDs in the permanent dentition requires a detailed examination and appropriate care. Case Descriptions: The authors present five cases of MMDs in adults to illustrate a range of restorative and orthodontic options. In the first case, the clinician used resin-based composite buildup to close an MMD resulting from small teeth and generalized spacing in the dental arch. In the second case, the clinician placed porcelain veneers to treat an MMD in a patient with discolored dentition. In the third case, the clinician fitted a removable appliance to close an MMD by tipping the incisors palatally. In the fourth case, the clinician fitted a sectional fixed appliance to promote mesial bodily movement of the incisors. In the fifth case, the clinician placed a full-arch fixed appliance to treat an MMD caused by tilted incisors. Conclusions and Clinical Implications: Effective treatment requires an accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention. General dentists can perform a range of restorative and orthodontic treatments in appropriate clinical situations to address patients' concerns.