Extracting Teeth for Malocclusion Treatment

Serial extraction is the carefully planned and selective removal of baby (Reference primary Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window) teeth to create room for incoming permanent (Reference secondary Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window) teeth. The reason dentists or orthodontists consider removing teeth is because after age 8, the space for a child's teeth (arch length) doesn't increase.^{Reference 1} Severe crowding of teeth at this age means that permanent teeth are likely to come in out of place. This can result in a bad bite or crooked teeth (Reference malocclusion Opens New Window).

Often an orthodontist will remove the primary canine teeth once the two front secondary incisors on top and bottom have erupted. This makes room for the permanent incisors. After 2 years, when the first premolars and permanent canines are ready to erupt, the orthodontist again checks for crowding. More teeth are removed if necessary. Often the orthodontist chooses to remove the first premolars.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.