[Contraindications to the use of extraoral forces in dentofacial orthopedics]

Following a brief and non-exhaustive review of the various types of extra-oral traction, the author stresses certain contra-indications which, in his opinion, should be borne in mind by the operator. These contraindications, are, essentially, a pathological mesiodistal orientation of the adult molars, reflecting dento-maxillary disharmony in the anterior segments, and an abnormality of inclination of the alveolar processes for which aetiological treatment is more rational.