The molar extraction debate

Recent reports of conflict between dentists and orthodontists over the extraction of second molar teeth prior to orthodontic treatment raise a number of questions; one of which is: not whether or not to extract, but which teeth to extract. So that this controversial topic may be debated further, the Editor of this Journal has sought contributions from several quarters. Dr Harry Orton of the United Kingdom has written and lectured widely on this subject and recently lectured to the Western Australian Branch of the Australian Society of Orthodontists; his lecture has been summarised by Dr John Stamatis who has also compiled a review of the literature on the subject. Both the summary and the review are printed below together with some clinical experiences of the Editor.