Widely spaced teeth

Apr 08, 2005 Viewed: 701

Alternative names
Teeth - widely spaced

Definition

Widely spaced teeth can be a temporary condition related to normal growth and the acquisition of adult teeth. It can also occur as a permanent condition in several diseases. Wide spacing can also result from continued growth of the maxilla or jaw, as is seen in acromegaly.

Common Causes

     
  • Normal growth (temporary widening)  
  • Tooth shifting due to missing teeth  
  • Acromegaly  
  • Morquio syndrome  
  • Sanfilippo syndrome  
  • Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

Home Care
If the appearance is bothersome, ask your dentist about the possibility of orthodontic work (braces).

Call your health care provider if

     
  • Your child’s teeth or jaws appear to be developing abnormally.  
  • Other symptoms accompany the appearance of widely spaced teeth.

What to expect at your health care provider’s office
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

     
  • Dental x-rays  
  • Facial or skull x-rays

 

Johns Hopkins patient information

Last revised: December 3, 2012
by Martin A. Harms, M.D.

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All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.