Gap-toothed smiles might be endearing in children, but not so much when it comes to adults. Known formally as diastema, gaps in teeth go beyond esthetic concerns and, if left untreated, can lead to serious dental issues. Tooth Gap Causes Tooth gaps can be the result of natural skeletal development, genetics, or external factors, such as habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting, which can push teeth out of alignment over time. Tooth loss can also create ...