Therapeutic extraction of second molars in orthodontics: a scoping review
2025

Review of Second Molar Extraction in Orthodontics

Sample size: 14 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Montasser Ziad M., Montasser Mona A.

Primary Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Horus University in Egypt

Hypothesis

What is the current evidence on the extraction of second molars in orthodontics?

Conclusion

There is quite low level of evidence to support second molar extraction in orthodontics.

Supporting Evidence

  • The review included 14 studies after screening 103 articles.
  • Only 2 of the included studies were prospective.
  • Most studies focused on the effects of second molar extraction on third molar eruption and occlusal changes.

Takeaway

This study looked at whether pulling out second molars helps with braces. It found not many good studies to say it really works.

Methodology

A scoping review of literature from various databases was conducted to identify studies on second molar extraction in orthodontics.

Potential Biases

Most studies were retrospective, which may introduce bias due to non-randomized selection of participants.

Limitations

The review faced challenges in finding high-quality RCTs and included many retrospective studies with potential biases.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12903-024-05346-8

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