Evaluation of stomatological needs of 8-year-old children connected with premature loss of deciduous teeth.

The study covered 106 eight-year-old children attending different schools in Lublin that do not provide dental care. The study evaluated decay frequency, DEF value and its components D, E, F, def value and its components d, e, f as well as treatment index for deciduous and permanent teeth. Additionally, it assessed the needs for orthodontic and prosthetic provisions connected with premature loss of deciduous teeth. The study found low treatment index, especially for deciduous teeth. Premature loss of deciduous teeth is an indication for prosthetic provision in the form of space retainers or partial dentures. Without prompt treatment different acquired facio-occlusal defects may develop.