A study on treatment effects of Class III cases by second molar extraction

Lee, Sung Hee; Park, Young Guk; Chung, Kyu Rhim

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft tissue changes of Class III malocclusion cases treated by second molar extraction. The lateral cephalograms of 15 subjects with moderate Class III malocclusion by average ANB -1.4degrees and IMPA 85degrees were traced and the computerized superimposition of average craniofacial change was made. The data was gathered and statistically analyzed. The results were as follows: 1. Lower anterior facial height/anterior facial height increased by 0.6%(P<0.01), mandibular plane increased by 1.5degrees (P<0.05). 2. There was a slightly downward & backward rotation of the mandible. 3. Lower first molar tipped distally by 4.06mm(P<0.001), lower anterior teeth lingually tipped by 3.2degrees (P<0.05). 4. Retracted lower lip improved facial profile. This study may suggest that second molar extraction could be effective for a moderate Class III malocclusion to make distalization of the lower first molar easier and avoid severe lingual tipping of the lower incisor, if the lower third molar has a normal shape, good direction of eruption and adequate time for lower second molar extraction.