A diastema is a term used to describe a gap or space between two teeth in the dental arch. It can occur in different areas of themouth but is most commonly seen between the upper two front teeth. A diastema can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, an imbalance in the size of teeth and jawbone, missing teeth, periodontal disease, or habitsmouth and can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, abnormal growth of the jawbone or gum tissue, missing teeth, or habits such as thumb sucking. Diastemas are common in children and can sometimes close on their own as adult teeth come in. However, in some cases, diastemas may persist into adulthood and require orthodontic treatment to correct. While diastemas are considered a cosmetic issue for some individuals, they can also interfere with proper dental function and lead to bite problems and gum disease if left untreated.