Molar extraction: A perspective on a clinical study

Though not frequent, the first or second molars are sometimes selected as candidates for the teeth extracted for orthodontic treatment. Most of molar extraction cases published in the journals show the typical Class II molar relation with extraction of maxillary second molars and mandibular third molars, or the Class I crowding case with extraction of four second molars. Meanwhile, a variety of molar extraction cases presents in Japanese patients.This study including 60 Japanese patients was conducted to reveal the facts on the treatment with first or second molar extraction and identify the pros and cons of the therapy. Clinical indications for molar extraction are proposed, which are classified into nine categories and each case in every category is shown. Some considerations during treatment and keys to successful results are also presented.