Space maintenance after early loss of primary teeth

Abstract

Despite the decline in caries prevalence in the last two decades, there is a small part of population that accounts for a large number of caries lesions that, if not treated, may result in dental loss and dental arch reduction, causing damage that may affect the stomatognathic system equilibrium. Space main- tainers may avoid such a situation, however, for the treatment success, they should be correctly prescribed. This work aimed to discuss some aspects of space maintenance after early loss of primary teeth and provide directions to clini- cians working with children. This literature review suggests that a decrease in the length of the den- tal arch is usually observed after early loss of primary teeth and the space maintenance is of great importance to the patient. Key words: space maintenan- ce, early loss, primary tooth.