Australian Dental Journal The official journal of the Australian Dental Association Australian Dental Journal 2019; 0: 1–10 doi: 10.1111/adj.12716 The extraction of first, second or third permanent molar teeth and its effect on the dentofacial complex A Hatami, C Dreyer Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. ABSTRACT The extraction of permanent molar teeth was first introduced in 1976 as a substitution for premolar extraction in cases with mild crowding. Since then, a number of studies have investigated the effect of permanent molar extraction on dentofacial harmony. Undertaking the procedure of molar extraction is most commonly recommended in response to factors such as: gross caries, large restorations and root-filled teeth, along with its application in the management of anterior open bite and reduction in crowding in facial regions. It has been indicated, however, that before undertaking the extraction of molar teeth it is important to investigate the potential influence of the procedure on other molars, with particular consideration of their eruption path. This is due to the doubt as to the effect of the exact molar teeth extraction and their consequences. In light of this, This review was undertaken to investigate and compare the effect of first, second and the third molar teeth extraction and their subsequent dentofacial complex changes. Keywords: dentofacial complex, extraction, first permanent molar, second permanent molar, third permanent molar. Abbreviations and acronyms: CAI = condylar asymmetry index; TMD = temporal mandibular disorder; TMJ = temporomandibular joint. (Accepted for publication 12 August 2019.) INTRODUCTION Tooth extraction is an important issue related to the management of the dentofacial complex and its symmetry, with the extraction rate in orthodontic patients found to be about 25–80%.1–5 The loss of permanent teeth most often occurs due to caries or for the treatment and management of periodontal disease6–9 with molar teeth playing an important role in normal occlusion.10,11 The first molar extraction in 1976 was mentioned in an article by Williams, however, the technique of extraction of permanent molar teeth as the substitution for premolar extraction was first introduced for the second molar by Richardson in 1996.12,13 Numerous studies have indicated various approaches for molar teeth extraction in recent years, however, the use of extraction is still controversial, as there are no clear indications for the use of this approach. The purpose of this article is to investigate and compare the dentofacial complex changes which © 2019 Australian Dental Association arise from the undertaking of the first, second and third molar extraction. FIRST MOLAR EXTRACTION Chronology and dimensions The movement of a tooth from its development site in alveolar bone to the occlusal plane is termed a tooth eruption.14 This path of eruption is not reliant on pressure from the tooth itself and is instead considered a genetic phenomena. The timing of the eruption of permanent teeth is specifically dependent on the loss of antecedent teeth.15–17 There are numerous factors which might affect permanent teeth eruption and their chronology such as hyperdontia, trauma and cysts, all of which are pathologic conditions affecting eruption by commanding space. Additionally, the presence of general factors could be important in eruption including genetic influences, gender, social and economic conditions, the geographic region and the consumption of fluoride.18–23 1 A Hatami and C Dreyer First evidence of calcification Enamel completed Eruption Root completed Overall length Crown length Root length Crown width Mesio-Distal Crown width Bucco-Lingual Root to crown ratio At birth 3–4 years 6 years 9–10 years Mandibular first molar (mm) 20.9 7.7 14.0 M root 13.0 D 11.4 10.2 1.83 Maxillary first molar (mm) 20.1 7.5 12.9 MB root 12.2 DB 13.7 L 10.4 11.5 1.72 were based on endodontic and restorative treatment need.45 Practitioners prefer extraction of this tooth to premolars because of its high rate of caries, root-fillings and its effect on relieving crowding.32,46 Bayram and colleagues showed that the extraction of the first molar could be useful as the space for third molar eruption is increased, the effects of which are more favourable for upper third molars in comparison with the lower.47 Disadvantages and contraindications of first molar extraction Additional studies have investigated the disadvantages of the first molar extraction26,48. These include: Advantages and indications of first molar extraction Losing the first molar for any reason can be a challenge for the developing occlusion especially in the mixed dentition stage24 as the first molar is an important tooth in the development of normal occlusion of both arches.10 It has been indicated that the first molar tooth is more often exposed to caries which can lead to early extraction of the tooth25–28, however, overall the development of caries in children and adolescents has decreased since 1980.29–31 The most common indications for the extraction of this tooth are caries, endodontic problems, and cases of hypomineralization.32 First molar extraction advantages and indications: (a) Management of impaction. It has been indicated that due to the lack of space the third molar could become impacted and that this tooth shows the highest impaction rate of all teeth. In a study carried out by Ay et al., it was suggested that mandibular third molar eruption could be facilitated by mandibular first molar extraction.33 (b) Management of molar incisor hypomineralization. This condition which is estimated to involve about 25% of European children and 3.6–19% in other populations34–38 is defined as inadequate mineralization in molar teeth34 resulting in a painful sensation when brushing or breathing cold air in which can require complex treatment.38,39 Jalevik et al. evaluated 27 children with hypomineralized teeth, and found that extraction of the first permanent molar could be beneficial. The study also found that the patient’s permanent dentition positioning and the reduction of the space did not cause particular concerns.40 Regardless of other conditions restorative treatment of hypomineralized molars caused practitioners a variety of management problems.41–44 (c) First molar extraction as part of orthodontic treatment. In 2010, Ong et al. suggested first molar extraction and its advantages and disadvantages 2 (a) Tipping of adjacent teeth towards the extraction site; (b) Shifting of the dental midline towards the site of the extraction; (c) Change in chewing habits; (d) Periodontal and temporomandibular joint problems. Of particular concern is the potential of the first molar extraction to negatively impact on dentofacial symmetry. This is defined as the similarity in shape and volume of both sides of the face, however, the exact equilibrium is theoretical.49–51 Caglaroglu and colleagues demonstrated, by using postero-anterior radiographs in 25 patients with maxillary permanent first molar extraction, 26 mandibular permanent first molar extraction and 30 controls, that patients who had early molar extraction could be faced with dental and skeletal asymmetry. This finding was also supported by Farkas and Hewitt amongst others.52,53 Halicioglu investigated bilateral mandibular first molar extraction and its effect on asymmetry in adult patients. In this study, the Condylar asymmetry index (CAI), ramal asymmetry index and condylar plus ramal asymmetry index were measured. The study found that the CAI was increased in both cases and control groups, however that there was no significant difference between the groups.54,55 By considering these studies, it can be suggested that the extraction of the first molar at mixed dentition stage could be important in dentofacial asymmetry but when this extraction happens in the adult there is no evidence of asymmetry. Furthermore, asymmetrical extractions when considered have to be evaluated carefully to prevent the side effect of asymmetry such as midline shift, temporal mandibular disorder (TMD) and cross bite. Timing for first molar extraction The differences in mandibular and maxillary first molar eruption could play an important role in © 2019 Australian Dental Association Molar extractions extraction timing.56 There are limited studies on this subject. Conway et al. in an evaluation of three cases showed that maxillary Molar extraction results were favourable in two children who were aged more than 11 years in comparison with one child at 8 years.57 Additionally, Jalvek’s study showed that the result of the maxillary first molar extraction in patients older than 8 years could be more promising in comparison with those under 8 years.40 The mandibular first molar extraction was also investigated in studies by Conway and Jalevik. In the Conway study, a mandibular first molar extraction was performed in two patients aged 11 and 12 years, however, the results of the extractions were inconclusive. However, in Jalevik’s study the mandibular extraction in 12 patients showed favourable results despite the differences in their age.40,57 Considering the limited number of studies there is not enough evidence to determine a definite conclusion, however, based on current literature, it is suggested that the extraction of the first molar is favourable in orthodontic treatment of patients older than 8 years old. Ay et al. noted that the early extraction of the first molar could cause dentofacial asymmetry, premature contacts and uncontrolled tipping.58 Other molar position changes after first molar extraction The loss of a permanent maxillary first molar is commonly followed by a mesial drift of the second (a) (b) Fig. 1 In this patient the first molar extraction effect on the third molar development is illustrated. This panoramic radiograph shows third molar development acceleration in the maxillary (a) and mandibular (b) where extraction of the first molar has occurred.61 © 2019 Australian Dental Association molar, which along with the extraction of the first molar can provide a favouable space for third molar eruption into the second molar site.47 Additionally, the extraction of the second molar might trigger this shift by better positioning the third molar at the time of its eruption.59,60 Halicioglu et al. investigated permanent first molar extraction effects on the third molar development and showed that the extraction of the first molar can have beneficial effect on developmental acceleration of the third molar on the mandibular and maxillary extracted side (Fig. 1).61 In addition, first molar extraction can also provide a greater vertical angulation of third molar (Table 1).33,47 Angle’s classification in first molar extraction Angle’s classification is a common method for the evaluation of malocclusion of teeth.62 Teo et al. investigated the Angle’s classification in patients with first molar extraction and the position of the second molar after 5 years. They could not show any significant association between Angle’s classes and space closure. Even by considering any significant relationship most of the cases with upper first molar extraction led to adequate space closure.59 SECOND MOLAR EXTRACTION A permanent second molar is the tooth located distally from the first molars and mesial from the third molars.63 The first molar tooth might be sacrificed during orthodontic extraction26 however, the special anatomical position of the second molar and the outcome of extraction modalities has been the focus of attention for some time in the Western world.63,64 Recently, second molar extraction has become a topic of interest and controversy among dental professionals.65 There is discordance in the scientific literature on the conditions of the adjacent second molar associated with the extraction of neighbouring molars. Retrospective studies have reported relatively high residual periodontal defects at the distal aspect of the second molar after third molar extraction.66–69 However, some prospective studies have shown different clinical outcomes with relative periodontal improvements.67,70,71 Studies have shown different results of improvement, unchanged or even deterioration of periodontal status.67 Orthodontic treatment involving the extraction of the second molar comparably takes significantly shorter time for periodontal ligament to heal than with non-extraction methods of treatment.72 3 A Hatami and C Dreyer Table 1. Important studies in this field and their Intended conclusion Author Year Conclusion Yavoz 2006 Ay 2006 Jalevik 2007 Caglaroglu 2008 Bayram 2009 Teo 2013 Halicioglu 2013 Halicioglu 2014 The extraction of the first permanent molar can induce third molar eruption in early ages First molar extraction increases the third molar space, aids in better development, eruption and better movement into the space. Also increase in vertically angulated third molars Extraction of first molar is an appropriate alternative in patients with hypomineralization.The permanent dentition positioning and dental development in these patients was suitable without any intervention Early unilateral first molar extraction can lead to dental and skeletal asymmetries First molar extraction increases the third molar eruption space and increases the maxillary third molar angulation more than the mandibular There was no statistically significant association between Angle’s classes and space closure Condylar asymmetry index were increased but there were no statistical significant difference in asymmetry between these groups The first molar extraction caused increased third molar eruption acceleration in both maxilla and mandible 3.1 Chronology and dimensions73–75 First evidence of calcification Enamel completed Eruption Root completed Overall length Crown length Root length Crown width MD Crown width BL Root to crown ratio Mandibular second molar (mm) 20.6 7.7 13.9 M root 13.0 D 10.8 9.9 1.82 2.5–3 years 7–8 years 11–13 years 14–15 years Maxillary second molar (mm) 20.0 7.6 12.9 MB root 12.1 DB 13.5 L 9.8 11.4 1.70 Advantages and indications of second molar extraction Second molar extraction has been recommended as an orthodontic treatment option.77 The indications for the extraction of the second molars include: (a) Presence of severe caries. (b) Ectopically erupted or severely rotated molars.76–79 (c) Existence of mild-to-moderate arch length deficiencies with concurrent good facial profiles. (d) Crowding in the tuberosity area with a need to facilitate first molar distal movement.57 (e) Relief of malocclusions developed from the eruption forces of permanent molars.80 (f) Facilitate the eruption of the third molars, thus avoiding the need for surgical extraction. Other advantages and considerations of second molar extraction include: 4 Patients number Mean age Ref 165 15.35 2.53 122 107 patients with unilateral mandibular first-molar extractions 27 25.69 33 8.2 40 25 maxillary/26 mandibular/30 control 41 18.25 49 16.6 47 63 8.9 59 30 and 25 control 18.24 1.17 54 2925 panoramic radiographs 13–20 years 61 (a) The minimal impact on the anterior profile of the face due to the lack of visiblity.73,81,82 (b) Significantly shorter time to heal compared to the non-extraction approach of orthodontic treatment.72 (c) Facilitation of treatment using removable appliances. (d) Disimpaction and faster eruption of third molars. (e) Prevention of ‘late’ incisor imbrication, fewer ‘residual’ spaces at the end of orthodontic treatment. (f) Less likelihood of relapse. (g) Favourable functional occlusion and mandibular arch formation.72,83 Disadvantages and contraindications of second molar extraction Various authors have reported some drawbacks regarding extraction of the second molar tooth, including the 84 (a) Tipping and drifting of the adjacent teeth, usually followed by missing mandibular second molars. (b) Supraeruption of unopposed teeth. (c) Poor gingival contours. (d) Poor interproximal contacts. (e) Reduced inter-radicular bone and pseudopockets.85 (f) Late lower arch crowding when extracted in the presence of a developing third molar with insufficient space.86 (g) The development of cervicofacial subcutaneous infections which might follow incomplete second molar extraction.64,87 © 2019 Australian Dental Association Molar extractions Other disadvantages of second molar removal as reported by several authors include: (a) Frequent undesirable positions of erupted third molars resulting in a second late stage of fixed appliance therapy. (b) That the extraction site is located far from the area of concern in moderate-to-severe anterior crowding.11,60,65,72,81 Timing for second molar extraction It is believed by many orthodontists that the optimum age for second molar extraction as a therapeutic method is between 12 and 14 years, with the importance of the position of the third molar is equally highlighted allowing the fill-in of space left by the second molar.80,88 The consensus of several reports is that the optimal time of extraction of the second molar is as early as it erupts, provided that the third molar crown is complete but before any reliable evidence of root formation. The axial alignment and angulation of the third molar bud plays an essential role in the extraction decision, especially if indicated at a later age.79,83,89,90 Changes in other molar position after second molar extraction It is noted that the loss of permanent molars is closely followed by drift of the neighbouring teeth.91 This shift also could be triggered by the extraction of the second molar which might provide the third molar a better position and hasten the time of the eruption.59,60 In relation to the drift following extraction, Wieslander reported that the third molars usually assume a downward and forward orientation,80 with Richardson et al reporting slight distal movement of the first molars and a decrease in crowding.88 It is a common belief among dental professionals that in the long-term perspective, unopposed molars tend to over erupt following the extraction of the molars. Livas et al found insignificant changes in the eruptive movement of unopposed mandibular second molars.92 However, according to Breakspear: (a) Path of eruption of the third molar could be affected by the over eruption of the opposing second molar. (b) Distal migration of the first molar when there is missing second molar and premolar crowding could also effect path of eruption of the third molar. (c) Following the second molar extraction a residual space is created which is usually spontaneously closed by distal movement of the first molars and to some extent by spontaneous migration of the third molars.63,80,83,93 © 2019 Australian Dental Association A comparative study by Staggers et al., demonstrated that the maxillary and mandibular first molars were protracted a greater amount in the second molar compared to pre-molar extraction group. There appeared no change in facial profile after extraction of second-molars.83 In another study, the maxillary first molars were found to have moved distally an average of 1.2 mm following the maxillary second molar extraction.72,80,94,95 THIRD MOLAR EXTRACTION The third molar tooth (M3) is the last to appear and is the most variable tooth affected by morphology, eruption period and oligodontia/hypodontia.96 The M3 is of interest to scientists when estimating the chronological age of youngsters, to assess development, to select treatment, to establish diagnosis and to resolve legal issues and immigration.97 Wisdom teeth are the most likely to undergo impaction (incomplete eruption in the presence of a fully grown root), which occurs when there is inadequate space in the mouth, if there is an impediment by another tooth or if the tooth has developed in an abnormal position. The impacted tooth is generally trouble free and covered totally or partially by soft tissue, bone or a combination of the two.98 The development of the M3 is not without risks, however, with Mortazavi et al.99 finding with their systematic review an association between an impacted third molar and 10 different types of cysts and tumours. Chronology and dimensions The chronology of M3 varies widely across races but generally it is found that females experience M3 development earlier than their male counterpart. The earliest chronology of human dentition by Schour and Massler, that is modified from Kronfeld’s table, provides an estimate of M3 chronology with maxillary dentition in the lead. The M3 is similar to second molar being heartshaped but has a smaller crown and shorter root compared to the second molar tooth.100 First evidence of calcification Enamel completed Eruption Root completed Overall length Crown length Root length Crown width MD Crown width BL Root to crown ratio Mandibular third molar (mm) 18.2 7.5 11.8 M root 10.8 D 11.3 10.1 1.57 7–9 years 12–16 years 17–21 years 18–25 years Maxillary third molar (mm) 17.5 7.2 10.8 MB root 10.1 DB 11.2 L 9.2 10.4 1.49 5 A Hatami and C Dreyer The development and eruption of the third molar is enigmatic in orthodontics, especially the mandibular third molar.101 It’s been indicated that the early eruption of the M3 is associated with the angulation of the developing third molar, mandibular growth and the extraction of other teeth in the erupting area.101,102 The eruption of M3, like other permanent teeth, is dependent on a number of factors, including: (a) Genetic diseases such as Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Down syndrome, Neurofibromatosis etc. (b) Gender. (c) Socioeconomic status (conflicting data on higher vs. lower socioeconomic status).103 (d) Nutrition (malnutrition extending into early adulthood delayed dental eruption). (e) Systemic diseases (renal failure, anaemia and vitamin D-resistant rickets104). Advantages and indications of third molar extraction Despite its common use, the surgical removal, and the timing of the surgical removal, of asymptomatic M3 as prophylaxis to prevent related health complications is a controversial topic among health practitioners as well as public and health insurance companies103,105. As concluded by Costa et al. in their systematic review the notion of M3 extraction as a prophylaxis is null and void due to lack of sufficient evidence.106 However, a number of benefits exist for M3 extraction and studies have unanimously pointed to an earlier age of extraction to correlate favourably with lesser morbidity.107 The circumstances remaining in which extraction of the M3 is indicated, include: (a) Impaction associated with dental caries (intractable carious lesion). (b) Periodontal defects close to the preceding molar.108 (c) Pericoronitis. (d) Odontogenic cyst.109 (e) Dental tumours.105 (f) Prophylactic removal of impacted M3 is also indicated for root resorption, crowding of lower incisors and damage to the adjacent tooth.98 The M3 also plays a role as a method for evaluating a young adult age. Chronological evidence from all other bony tissues has been completed by the mid-adolescence, with the M3 having the benefit of its phase of crown-root mineralization able to be easily surveyed in a non-invasive manner from a dental radiograph. This technique is also useful in determining age in forensic science96 as well as in the evaluation of dental age to provide a vital way of monitoring whether adolescents are developing sequentially.97 Dental surgeons use an appraisal of M3 mineralization to plan autologous transplant in replacing undesirable first or second molars.109 Disadvantages of third molar extraction A number of changes post third molar extraction have been observed. (a) Increase in probing depth on the distobuccal aspect of the second molars and a reduction in attachment level after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar.110 (b) No appreciable gain in alveolar bone height after removal of the impacted M3 of second molars with distal bone loss due to M3 impaction.111 The extraction of M3 is a topic of ongoing controversy.112 One of ten patients after surgical removal experience associated complications that include; intense pain, swelling, haemorrhage, infection, alveolar osteitis, haematoma, lockjaw105, alveolar nerve injury113, oroantral communication, incomplete root removal, delayed healing, infected subperiosteal hematoma and bony spicule.114 Although rare, 5 in 1000 patients over 25 years of age experience mandibular angle fracture after M3 extraction.108 Patients commonly experience anxiety with the removal of M3, which has a significant impact on the outcome of the surgery due to the disturbed emotional state of the patient.115 Kim and colleagues have Table 2. Indications, disadvantages and proposed timing for extraction of molar teeth Tooth/condition Indications Disadvantages Changes in other molar position 6 First molar Second molar Third molar Caries, endodontic problems, hypomineralization Shifting of the dental midline, change in chewing habits, periodontal problems, temporomandibular joint problems Help in mandibular third molar eruption Caries, ectopically eruption, severely rotated, orthodontic treatment Drifting of the adjacent teeth, supraeruption of unopposed teeth, poor gingival contours, poor interproximal contacts, reduced inter-radicular bone, pseudopockets Caries, periodontal defects, pericoronitis, odontogenic cyst, dental tumours One of 10 patients faced with intense pain, swelling, haemorrhage, alveolar osteitis, haematoma, lockjaw, alveolar nerve injury Relieve malocclusions, facilitate eruption of the third molars, faster eruption of third molars, maxillary first molars could have move distally Relieve crowding of lower incisors © 2019 Australian Dental Association Molar extractions demonstrated a significant reduction in intraoperative anxiety of the patients in presence of their music of choice.116 Patients appreciated having a separate consultation prior to surgical visit for M3 extraction but it has no corralation to overal anxiety outcome.117 Timing for a third molar extraction There is a paucity of literature on the timing for the M3 extraction. In general, dental professionals agree that third molars should be removed whenever there is evidence that predicts: (a) Cavities that cannot be restored (b) Severe periodontal disease (c) Infections (d) Tumours (e) Cysts, and/or (f) Damage to neighbouring teeth. In terms of tooth survival to extraction among wisdom teeth in the maxillary or mandibular arch, the difference is insignificant but upper M3 survival time to extraction carries the least prognosis.118 The prophylactic M3 extraction at younger age has a more positive prognosis.107 Changes in other molar position after third molar extraction In patients with second molar extraction, usually the lower third molar erupts in an acceptable position.86 Richardson et al. recommended that the presence of the third molar could be a cause of crowding in lower arch during the post-adolescent period.119 However, there is no conclusive evidence to show the role of M3 on anterior teeth crowding. Previous studies have pointed out that molar distalization and rotation is unaffected by wisdom teeth eruption. After second molar extraction, M3 usually assumes a downward and forward orientation.80 Bayram and co-workers stated that prophylactic extraction of the first molar provides adequate space for M3 eruption and results in better angulation of maxillary M3 compared to the mandibular. This also decreases the chance of impaction of M3s.120 In another study, it was concluded that first molar extraction helps M3 occupy an optimal position but suggested if the extraction was carried out too early, this could lead to uncontrolled tipping of neighbouring teeth into the extraction space.121,122 CONCLUSION This study was carried out to evaluate dentofacial complex changes in first, second and third molar teeth extraction. A number of studies were included as part © 2019 Australian Dental Association of this review, most of which indicate that undertaking the extraction of the first, second and third molars must involve a number of considerations. These considerations include and are not limited to; (a) management of impaction (b) molar pathologies such as gross caries, dentigerous cyst etc (c) severe hypomineralization (d) age of patient (e) asymmetry and malocclusion (f) molar teeth crowding (g) Periodontal and TMJ problems There are some circumstances in which the indications for molar extraction are clear, such as when there is the presence of caries affecting the teeth. However, the studies regarding timing of planned extractions are limited and conclusions drawn require further investigation. When planning for extractions the known disadvantages do need to be considered, such as alvelolar nerve injury, intense pain, swelling and infection, unfavourable shifting of adjacent teeth, change in occlusion, TMJ problems. When extraction is planned for first, second or third molars, the patients’ age and the optimum timing for the extraction needs to be carefully considered. This study suggests that the approach to dental molar extraction must include the careful consideration of the effects of the extracted molar on other molars, the faciodental complex and its symmetry (Table 2). CONFLICTS OF INTEREST The authors disclose no conflicts of interest. This research has not received any funding. All authors have viewed and agreed to the submission. REFERENCES 1. Proffit WR. Forty-year review of extraction frequencies at a university orthodontic clinic. Angle Orthod 1994;64:407–414. 2. Janson G, Maria FRT, Bombonatti R. 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Evaluation of third molar development and its relation to 10 121. Ay S, Agar U, Bicakci AA, Kosger HH. Changes in mandibular third molar angle and position after unilateral mandibular first molar extraction. Am J Orthod Dentofac Orthop 2006;129:36–41. _ _ _ Effects 122. Ib Yavuz, Baydasß B, Ikbal A, Dagsuyu IM, Ceylan I. of early loss of permanent first molars on the development of third molars. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2006;130:634–638. Address for correspondence: Amir Hatami 38 James Street Mount Gambier SA 5290 Australia Email: amh2005@gmail.com © 2019 Australian Dental Association