Ankylosed primary molars.

The prevalence of ankylosis of primary molars was found to be 3.7% of the sample subjects. Eighty-two of the 2234 children examined exhibited ankylosis. The prevalence of ankylosis among the black children in the sample was much lower (0.93%) than that of the white children (4.10%). The mandibular first primary molar was ankylosed at an earlier age and more frequently than any other tooth. The frequency of ankylosis of the second primary molar increased in older children. The high incidence of ankylosed primary teeth was seen in children between seven and eleven years of age. Treatment should be based on the evaluation of growth potential jeopardized by the condition. Early extraction and subsequent space management, especially in the younger patient, is recommended.