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Widely spaced teeth

Definition

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

Causes

Some diseases and conditions that can cause widely spaced teeth are:

• Acromegaly

• Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

• Injury

• Morquio syndrome

• Normal growth (temporary widening)

• Possible gum disease

• Sanfilippo syndrome

• Tooth shifting due to gum disease or missing teeth

• Large frenum

• Congenitally missing teeth

Home Care

Ask your dentist if braces can help if the appearance bothers you. Some dental restorations like crowns, veneers, bridges, or implants may help improve the appearance and function of teeth.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if:

• Your child's teeth or jaws appear to be developing abnormally

• Other health symptoms accompany the appearance of widely spaced teeth

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

The dentist will examine the mouth, teeth, and gums. Other tests that may be done include:

• Dental x-rays

• Facial or skull x-rays

References

Baumhardt H, Chapman M, D'Alesio A, Woods K. Oral disorders. In: Zitelli BJ, McIntire SC, Norwalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis' Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 21.

Dhar VK. Development and developmental anomalies of the teeth. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 353.

Review Date: 3/31/2024

Reviewed By: Michael Kapner, DDS, General Dentistry, Norwalk Medical Center, Norwalk CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.