Treatment Approaches in Primary and Mixed Dentition

    In pediatric dentistry, treatment approaches applied during the primary and mixed dentition periods influence not only the preservation of existing teeth but also the healthy development of the permanent dentition. For this reason, clinicians must adopt a comprehensive perspective encompassing radiographic evaluation, eruption guidance, infection management, and extraction indications.

Radiographic Assessment in Primary and Mixed Dentition

    Radiographic examinations play a critical role in the early diagnosis of developmental and pathological conditions. In the primary dentition, root resorption, eruption pathways, the presence of anomalies, and carious lesions should be carefully evaluated. During the mixed dentition period, the eruption direction of the first permanent molars and canines, as well as the degree of mineralization, can be assessed through panoramic and periapical radiographs by monitoring crown–root development stages. This approach enables the early detection of potential malocclusions, delayed eruptions, and mineralization problems.

Importance of Treating Primary Teeth

    Primary teeth serve as essential guides for permanent teeth and play a critical role in mastication, phonetics and esthetics. Untreated primary teeth may develop acute infections that progress to chronic conditions, resulting in fistula or abscess formation. Such infections can adversely affect the development and may lead to severe complications, particularly in children with systemic diseases. The literature reports that periradicular infections in primary teeth may cause enamel hypoplasia, crown malformations, and arrested root development in the succeeding permanent teeth.

Eruption Guidance and Extraction Indications

    Accurate knowledge of eruption timing in children is crucial for both treatment planning and extraction decisions. During eruption guidance, radiographic assessment of root development, resorption status, and the position of permanent teeth must be carefully analyzed. Unnecessary extractions may lead to future orthodontic problems, whereas delayed extractions can increase the risk of eruption disturbances and dental crowding.

Clinical Symptoms and Treatment Approaches