Dental decay is the prime problem in children starting in the first few years of life.
Preliminary survey data reveal that by age 5-I0 years children average more than five decayed teeth primary teeth. In adults neglected oral hygiene, the carry-over of untreated decay as children, together with adult decay and chronic gum disease, show as progressive dental deterioration with need for multiple tooth extractions. The dental care provided at the dental clinics on all three atoll clinics is primarily ad hoc emergency tooth extractions on demand. No rehabilitative care or denture services are available on the atolls. No clinic has functional chair-side lighting.