The most common consequence of premature extraction of deciduous molars is?

The most common consequence of premature extraction of deciduous molars is the loss of arch length. This occurs because the primary molars play a crucial role in maintaining space for the developing permanent teeth. When these molars are extracted too early, the adjacent teeth can drift into the space left behind, which can result in crowding or misalignment of the permanent teeth as they erupt. This shifting can lead to a lack of sufficient space in the dental arch, which can complicate the alignment of the permanent dentition and potentially require orthodontic intervention to correct.

While other options might present issues arising from the loss of deciduous molars, they are typically not as direct or immediate as loss of arch length. For instance, loss of speech sounds or facial contour may occur but are generally more related to broader developmental problems or aesthetic concerns that arise from multiple factors, not solely the extraction of the molars. Increased difficulty in chewing can also happen, but it tends to be a consequence of loss of function rather than a direct result of arch space issues, which is the primary concern following premature molar extraction. Therefore, the impact on arch length is a clear and immediate result that is commonly observed in dental practice.