Perdas precoces de dentes decíduos: diferenças nas consequências, objetivos e métodos de manutenção do espaço em região anterior e posterior

Abstract

Early tooth loss in primary dentition is relatively common in childhood, with caries and trauma as the main causes. It is a matter of concern for Dental Surgeons, due to the repercussions that can cause in the development of permanent dentition. The maintenance of space can provide benefits both in the anterior and posterior regions, considering that there are differences in the consequences of early dental losses between these areas. This study aimed to carry out a literature review on the differences between the anterior and posterior regions, in relation to the consequences of early loss of primary teeth and also to the objectives and methods of space maintenance. Knowing that there are differences in the consequences of early dental loss, depending on some variables, a detailed clinical evaluation must be performed, in addition to the complementary radiographic examination. Depending on which tooth was involved, the arch in which it occurred, whether it was unilateral or bilateral and the time elapsed since the dental loss, the consequences for the development of the occlusion and the choice of treatment can vary. It can be concluded that, in general, in the anterior region, the objective of treatment is more related to aesthetics and phonetics, which are the factors most affected by early dental loss in this area, whereas in the posterior region, the main aim is to maintain the arc perimeter. There are a variety of space maintainers appliances that can be used, and it is up to the professional to make the correct selection according to the missing tooth and the affected arch region, based on the future benefits in the development of the child patient.