Extraction of 4 permanent teeth before orthodontia to relieve overcrowding. is that still done?

Yes: Some people do not have room in their mouth for all their teeth.. And extractions are done to make sure there is enough room for teeth to move into proper position without overcrowding.

Yes: Your dentist and/or orthodontist may recommend extraction of teeth to allow for space to correct your crowding. The number and specific teeth indicated for removal is determined after a thorough clinical examination and review of your diagnostic records have been performed and analyzed.

Orthodontia: Yes, very much so. Many attempts are made to treat patients without extractions with variable results. Bottom line--we can't grow bone to make room for all the teeth. Sometimes expanding the jaws will help but their are limitations. So, yes extractions still is a good option.

Yes sometimes needed: It is always a good idea to have a goal of not extracting permanent teeth but occasionally it is unavoidable and definitely leads to the best result. In order for the most functional as well as esthetic result the orthodontist needs to move the teeth to the positions best for facial balance and harmony. In 20-30% of the time this will require extractions and they should not be feared.

Yes: Extractions for orthodontics is still very much a viable treatment. The percentage of teeth needing removal has dropped dramatically since the 60' or 70's. Some patients will not have the proper amount of bone to support all the teeth, and so we remove some. If the position of teeth is so extreme (buck teeth) then removal allows for changes made to enhance the facial profile. My practice @ 20%.

Yes, but...: 30 years ago we treated 70% of patients with 1 or more tooth extractions, and average time in treatment was 24 months. Today only 30% of patients require extractions, and average time in treatment is 18 months. There are patients whose tooth-size to supporting bone-size ratio is so poor that the only way to make enough room to straighten teeth is with extractions.

Absolutely: The removal of premolars is a time-proven and evidence-based treatment that provides superior results for many patients in terms of stability, esthetics, and function. However, is it critical that your situation be evaluated by a licensed orthodontic specialist to determine if extractions are best in your case.

Teeth extractions: Tooth extractions are still a viable and utilized method of resolving crowding with orthodontic treatment - more often for non-growing patients. These extractions may be avoided if the orthodontic treatment is started at an early age - first eval by 7.