I am having 4 bicuspids pulled for braces?

30%: Approximately 30% of all orthodontic patients require extractions usually because there's not enough bone to support all of your teeth. Make sure you're seeing a qualified orthodontic specialist who does orthodontic treatment exclusively (not fillings or gum treatment, etc). Ask the orthodontist to explain why the need for extractions. He/she will be glad to explain.

Common treatment: Often patients do not have enough room for all their teeth to fit even if the orthodontist moves them around. Some teeth are more important for proper function than others. Canines are more importent than premolars, so in order to have room to fit the more important canines the less important first premolars are often extracted. About 1/3 of orthodontic patients need this done.