Pattern of premature tooth loss in the primary dentition of Saidi Arabian children

ABSTRACT

A study of premature tooth loss in the primary teeth of Saudi Arabian children was carried out to determine the magnitude and the major causes of such loss. Caries accounted for the majority of the teeth [80%] that were extracted. There was no difference amongst the sexes with regards to premature tooth loss. The age group 6-12 years, however, had the largest number of teeth extracted. The need for a preventive oral health program to combat early loss of primary teeth was stressed