Second molar extraction therapy--two case reports.

As in many areas of dentistry, the topic of second molar extraction therapy has its followers and its critics. Besides the problem of accurately predicting the eruption position of the third molars, I have also been concerned about the effect on the cranium and the temporo-mandibular joints. The majority of my patients with mild or moderate crowding are treated without extractions. The third molars, if present, are kept under observation. There is, however, one group of patients that responds well to the loss of second molars and for which, in my opinion, any alternative extraction pattern would compromise the patient with regard to function and facial appearance. This group is the mild Class III skeletal pattern with buccally crowded canines.