Gap Teeth (Diastema) Treatment in Seoul
Quick answer
Gap teeth, called spacing or a diastema when it is between the two front teeth, occur when teeth are small for the jaw, teeth are missing, a frenum is thick or teeth have flared forward. At Isu Yonsei Baro Orthodontics, Dr. Sally Chaekyung Lee first finds the cause, then plans closure with aligners, braces, veneers or a combination.
What gap teeth are
Spaces between teeth are called spacing. A gap between the two upper front teeth is a midline diastema. Small gaps are normal in children while permanent teeth erupt, and many close on their own. In teens and adults, spaces that remain or appear new are worth checking because the reason behind them shapes the treatment.
Common causes
- Teeth that are small relative to jaw size, or narrow upper lateral incisors (sometimes called peg laterals)
- Missing teeth, so neighbors drift and open spaces
- A thick or low-attached labial frenum, the tissue between the upper lip and gum
- Tongue thrust or lip habits pushing teeth forward
- Gum disease and bone loss causing teeth to fan out, which needs dental or periodontal care first
Why it matters
Many gaps are purely cosmetic, and some people like them. Others trap food, affect speech sounds slightly or are a sign of teeth drifting forward. A new gap in adulthood can sometimes signal gum problems, so it should be examined rather than simply closed.
How spacing is diagnosed
The exam measures each gap and the width of individual teeth from an intraoral digital scan. X-rays or a RAY Quantum 5D CT (CBCT) scan check for missing or extra teeth hidden in the bone, root shape and bone levels. Photos and a RAY Face 3D facial scan help judge whether closing spaces by moving teeth back will flatten the lips or whether adding tooth width suits the face better.
Treatment options
If teeth are a normal size, gaps are usually closed with Invisalign, Angel Aligner or ceramic braces. When only the front teeth are involved and the bite is healthy, limited front-teeth treatment may be enough. If teeth are narrow, orthodontics can distribute the space evenly and minimal-prep veneers can add width afterward. Spaces from missing teeth may be closed or kept open for an implant or bridge, discussed on the missing teeth page.
| Situation | Common approach |
|---|---|
| Normal-size teeth, mild spacing | Aligners or braces, then retainer |
| Narrow lateral incisors | Orthodontic redistribution plus veneers |
| Thick frenum | Orthodontic closure, sometimes with a frenum procedure by a dentist |
| Missing tooth | Close the space or open it for replacement |
Typical timeline
Simple spacing often closes in roughly 4–12 months, while spacing combined with bite problems takes longer as part of comprehensive treatment. Individual results and side effects vary; treatment is decided after examination.
What to expect at Isu Yonsei Baro
During the roughly 60-minute first visit you have scans, X-rays or CT and photos, and Dr. Lee explains the cause of your gaps in English. In Dr. Lee's practice, a bonded retainer behind the front teeth is often discussed for diastema cases, since this type of gap has a known tendency to reopen. You receive a written estimate before deciding, and she treats you personally from start to retention.
At a glance
- Clinical terms: generalized spacing; midline diastema for a gap between the upper front teeth
- Typical treatment time: often around 4–12 months for simple spacing (not a promise)
- Options: clear aligners, braces, limited treatment, minimal-prep veneers
- Long-term retention is especially important because gaps tend to reopen
- Consultation and written estimate in English
Your orthodontist
Dr. Sally Chaekyung Lee, DDS, PhD
- MOHW-certified orthodontic specialist
- PhD in Orthodontics, Yonsei University; Severance Hospital residency
- Member, Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists
- 2026 AJO-DO peer reviewer
- Consults in fluent English and treats you herself, start to finish
Isu Station Exit 2 · 1-minute walk
Mon & Thu until 9 PM · Sat 9 AM–2 PM
+82 2-592-2080
Frequently asked questions
Will the gap between my front teeth come back after treatment?
Gaps have a well-known tendency to reopen, especially a midline diastema or spaces caused by tongue pressure. Wearing retainers as instructed is the main protection, and a thin bonded wire behind the front teeth is often recommended. Treating contributing factors such as a thick frenum may also help stability in some cases.
Should I choose veneers or orthodontics to close gaps?
If your teeth are normal in size, orthodontics usually closes gaps while keeping natural enamel. If teeth are narrow, moving them first and then adding width with veneers can give more balanced proportions. Many people benefit from a combined plan, which Dr. Lee can outline after measuring tooth sizes from a digital scan.
Is a gap in my child's front teeth a problem?
A gap between a young child's upper front teeth is common and often narrows as the canines erupt around ages 11–13. A dentist or orthodontist may still check for an extra tooth or thick frenum on an X-ray. Treatment is usually only considered if the gap persists or other problems are present.
How long does it take to close small gaps with Invisalign?
Small spaces are often closed in a few months to about a year, depending on how many gaps there are, the bite and how consistently aligners are worn. This range is typical, not a promise. A digital plan made after your scan gives a more specific estimate for your teeth.
Related reading
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Individual results and side effects vary; treatment is decided after an in-person examination. See our editorial and medical review policy .
Talk to Dr. Lee in English
Send your concern and preferred dates. You'll get an examination, your options, a timeline and a written estimate before you decide anything.