If a patient has a very large diastema, what should you do?

When considering what to do about a very large diastema, the decision to leave it alone may be suitable in certain contexts. A diastema is a gap between teeth, and while it can be cosmetically concerning for some patients, it may not always require intervention. In cases where the diastema doesn’t cause functional issues, such as affecting the way the patient bites or chews, or if it doesn’t lead to aesthetic concerns that the patient wishes to address, it can be left as is.

Additionally, the natural occlusion and dental health of the patient play essential roles in this decision. If the patient has good oral health and the diastema is not associated with tooth movement or periodontal problems, it may not be medically necessary to intervene.

Each treatment option has its implications. For instance, implants or fixed partial dentures would involve surgical procedures and alterations to existing teeth, while removable partial dentures would not address the underlying issue of the diastema effectively. Hence, observing and allowing the patient to maintain their natural dentition without unnecessary intervention can be an appropriate course of action, particularly if the diastema is stable and asymptomatic.