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Review
. 2023 Apr;73(2):167-177.
doi: 10.1016/j.identj.2022.06.020. Epub 2022 Jul 31.

Maxillary Midline Diastemas in West African Smiles

Sefaakor Ahiaku  1 , Brian J Millar  2
Affiliations
Review

Maxillary Midline Diastemas in West African Smiles

Sefaakor Ahiaku et al. Int Dent J. 2023 Apr.

Abstract

The maxillary midline diastema (MMD) has experienced a renaissance in popular culture over the last 10 years. Current literature states that MMDs should be eliminated where possible or be reduced to 1 mm or less in width. This literature review explores the evidence for this in a West African population. A systematic search of the literature (Medline and Google Scholar) followed by a hand search was carried out to identify all papers evaluating perceptions of MMDs. In all, 209 papers were identified in the literature search, 8 of which met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed that midline diastemas are desirable in this specific population with a width of 2 to 4 mm deemed as attractive. As many as 95% of participants found the MMD beautiful, and as many as 95% would consider having one created artificially. The literature does not support the position that MMDs larger than 1 mm should always be treated to be perceived as attractive in this population. MMDs are accepted as attractive and should be considered a key feature in smile design for this population.

Keywords: Attractiveness; Desirability; Gap tooth; Maxillary midline diastema; Perceptions; West Africa.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest None disclosed.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig. 1
Maxillary midline diastema.
Fig 2
Fig. 2
PRISMA flow diagram.
Fig 3
Fig. 3
Prevalence of maxillary midline diastemas.
Fig 4
Fig. 4
Percentage of participants who considered a maxillary midline diastema a sign of beauty.
Fig 5
Fig. 5
Percentage of participants willing to artificially create a maxillary midline diastema.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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