ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Widely spaced teeth

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Widely spaced teeth

Definition

Widely spaced teeth can be a temporary condition related to normal growth and the development of adult teeth. It can also occur as a permanent condition in several diseases. Wide spacing can also result from continued growth of the jawbone.

Alternative Names

Teeth - widely spaced

Causes

Normal growth (temporary widening)
Tooth shifting due to missing teeth
Acromegaly
Morquio syndrome
Sanfilippo syndrome
Ellis-van Creveld syndrome
Possible presence of periodontal disease or trauma

Home Care

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

When to Contact a Medical Professional

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

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

Dental x-rays
Facial or skull x-rays


Oral anatomy

Review Date: 8/8/2007
Reviewed By: Michael Kapner, D.D.S., General and Cosmetic Dentistry, New Rochelle, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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