[The narrowing of the support area by premature tooth loss and caries in various abnormal alignments]

On the basis of the findings from 1470 patients referred for orthodontic treatment, the authors analyse, for various types of anomalies, the sequelae of untreated proximal caries and premature extractions in the supporting areas of the upper and the lower jaw. The results obtained indicate that the premature loss of deciduous teeth causes, in case of malalignment associated with lack of space, secondary alterations.