Tooth Position after Orthodontic Extractions: A Follow-up Study after Activator Treatment

Abstract

The long term result of orthodontic extractions of mandibular second premolars and permanent first molars was investigated by measuring the degree of tooth tipping mesial and distal to the extraction sites in cases with complete and incomplete closure of extraction spaces after treatment and/or at follow-up examination. Tooth inclination was determined from photographs taken of dental casts made after treatment and follow-up examination. The inclination of the teeth was measured in relation to each other and in relation to the occlusal line. The results of the investigation revealed that teeth which were tipped mesial and/or distal to the extraction sites after orthodontic treatment had a tendency to upright in relation to each other and in relation to the occlusal line. Uprighting was pronounced in cases which had extraction spaces remaining after treatment, but which were closed at the time of follow-up examination, and in cases with closed extraction spaces after treatment. However, minimal changes in inclination of the teeth adjacent to the extraction sites were found in cases with incomplete space closure after treatment and at follow-up.