The premature loss of the primary dentition impedes upon the development of the permanent teeth and on the intermaxillary relations, resulting even into the onset of later malocclusion.
The aim of this study was to assess the issues related to the integrity of the dental arches and the premature loss of the primary dentition, as well as the appropriateness of preventive therapy.
Material and method. The clinical research included a group of 274 children coming from three kindergartens in Iaşi City; the children belonged to 4 age groups: 4-5 years, 5-6 years, 6-7 years and 7-8 years, respectively.
Results and discussions. Our research revealed that in the 4-5 years age group, the integrity of the dental arches amounted to 77%, while in the 6-7 years age group, the primary dentition premature loss percentage was higher, which affected the integrity of the dental arches. We also noticed a higher percentage of premature loss of teeth on the lateral lower arch, especially the 1st or 2nd primary molar, than on the front arch. We revealed the appropriateness of preventive therapy, by the application of various types of space retainers about 70% for the 6-7/7-8 years age groups.
Conclusions. The study assessed the status of the primary dentition arches, the premature loss of the primary dentition, and revealed the variability of the lost dental pattern, depending on the childs age, and the importance of preventive therapy.
- pre school children
- primary dentition
- urban area