What should be done for a patient with a very large diastema?

In the context of managing a very large diastema, leaving it alone may initially seem appropriate, especially if the diastema does not cause functional issues, is not accompanied by any periodontal concerns, and the patient is not dissatisfied with their smile aesthetics. For some individuals, particularly if they are not experiencing discomfort or if the diastema is a natural part of their dental anatomy, it may not require immediate intervention.

However, it’s important to evaluate various factors such as the patient's overall dental health, occlusion, periodontal status, and aesthetic preferences. This approach allows for the consideration of whether the diastema may lead to future dental issues, such as food impaction, plaque buildup, or changes in bite dynamics.

The options involving referral to orthodontics or surgical closure typically address the aesthetic and functional implications of a large diastema. Orthodontic treatment would be more suitable if the aim is to bring the teeth closer together for improved aesthetics or to address any associated alignment issues. Surgical closure, on the other hand, is an invasive option that would likely be reserved for cases where movement or correction through orthodontics is not feasible or desired.

Choosing to prepare for veneers is also a more definitive aesthetic approach and assumes the patient has expressed a desire