If you have undergone or are undergoing orthodontic treatment at Wilmington Orthodontic Center, there are chances you may have been advised to get some of your teeth extracted. This is often a cause of great concern and stress to the patients. They wonder why some teeth need to be removed in order for them to get straight teeth. Well, if this question has been in your mind, we are here to put you at ease.Β
The need for teeth extraction will depend on individual cases. Not all patients who wish to have a well-aligned smile will need teeth extraction. Most of the time, teeth extraction is recommended in cases of extreme crowding.Β
Crowding occurs when there is a lack of space in the mouth to accommodate all the teeth adequately. Our teeth erupt sequentially into their intended position. However, at times, they will change their path of eruption and come out at unusual angles and positions. Crowding occurs when there is a lack of space in the mouth for proper eruption of the teeth. There is usually a discrepancy between the size of the teeth and the size of the underlying jawbone. If the jawbone is smaller as compared to the cumulative width of all the teeth, it will lead to the overlapping of the teeth, which is seen as crowding.Β
Now, to straighten teeth using braces, space has to be created to ensure movement of the teeth into proper position. Therefore, some teeth are extracted. Most commonly, the first or the second premolar will be extracted (the 4th and 5th tooth from the center). These teeth are removed from the left and the right side. Usually, extraction is carried out on both the upper and lower jaw. However, the type of tooth to be extracted will vary according to individual case analysis and will be decided by your orthodontist at Wilmington after a detailed study.Β
We hope this answers some of your questions; however, please reach out to us if you have any more questions. Our team at Wilmington Orthodontic Center will be there to assist you in your journey to a dazzling smile.Β
