A diastema is a space between two teeth, often noticed between the upper incisors. A long-standing, stable gap raises different questions from one that has appeared recently. Before deciding to close it, assessment should identify its cause, the condition of the teeth and gums, and what actually bothers you.
Does a gap always need correction?
The concern may be aesthetic, functional or related to a recent change. Not every gap needs treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends assessing its context, evolution and the bite before choosing an option. AAO, 2026.
Prepare your expectations: do you want to change your smile's appearance, understand why a gap is increasing or resolve discomfort? These are three different projects. An older photograph can help describe changes without replacing examination.
What the dentist checks
Assessment considers tooth size and position, arch relationships and the condition of supporting tissues. Tooth-to-arch proportions, a missing tooth or a gum problem may contribute to spacing. AAO guidance.
A new gap accompanied by bleeding or mobility warrants examination. France's Assurance Maladie lists new spaces and mobility among possible signs of periodontitis. Changes should therefore not automatically be attributed to the tongue. Assurance Maladie.
Can the tongue explain a diastema?
Resting pressure from the tongue and lips contributes to dental equilibrium. It is part of the analysis, not a sole cause that can be diagnosed from a photograph. Proffit notes that some swallowing movements may also adapt to the dental situation. Proffit, 1978
If a tongue difficulty is established, functional work can be discussed. It does not support promising closure through exercises alone. Evidence for retraining alongside orthodontics remains limited. Homem et al., 2014
Which options can be discussed after assessment?
Depending on the cause and goal, discussion may concern observation, orthodontic movement, restoration of tooth shape or treatment of an associated problem. These options work differently: moving a tooth differs from adding material to its surface. Options presented by the AAO.
Ask what would change, which checks are needed and the limits of the result. Selection is not simply about the visible gap's width. Examination also checks the project's effects on the whole smile and bite.
After orthodontic closure, consider retention
The end of tooth movement does not end follow-up. Retention aims to maintain the result achieved. The 2023 Cochrane review does not support a firm conclusion favouring one method for every patient. Martin et al., 2023
A standard tongue retraining device does not replace the retainer planned by the orthodontist. Even if tongue work accompanies treatment, it does not guarantee the gap will stay closed.
The Myoforce appliance, priced at €50, belongs to the standard tongue retraining appliance category. It is not presented as an appliance for closing a diastema. For more on functional assessment, read tongue pressure against the teeth in adults. For a recent gap, also see spaces between teeth: when to arrange a check.
Sources and method
- American Association of Orthodontists, 26 June 2026. Dental spacing, causes and options.
- Assurance Maladie. Understanding gingivitis and periodontitis, accessed 1 October 2026.
- Proffit, 1978. Pressure equilibrium and tooth position: theoretical paper.
- Homem et al., 2014. Systematic review of myofunctional therapy in orthodontics.
- Martin et al., Cochrane, 2023. Retention after orthodontic treatment.
Written by: Dr Vladimir Khourda, a dentist who no longer practises. Informational content updated on 1 October 2026 using the references cited. It does not replace an individual assessment.