Purpose: The purpose of this study was to consider the available evidence regarding premature loss of primary molars and the implications for treatment planning.
Methods: Electronic database searches were conducted--including published information available until July 2007--for available evidence. A methodological quality assessment was also applied.
Results: Although a significant number of published articles had dealt with premature primary molar loss, only 3 studies (including a total combined sample of 80 children) had the minimal methodological quality to be considered for this systematic review.
Conclusion: A reported immediate space loss of 1.5 mm per arch side in the mandible and 1 mm in the maxilla--when normal growth changes were considered--was found. The magnitude, however, is not likely to be of clinical significance in most cases. Nevertheless, in cases with incisor and/or lip protrusion or a severe predisposition to arch length deficiency prior to any tooth loss, this amount of loss could have treatment implications.