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Balancing the extraction of primary teeth: a review
1Department of Child Dental Health, University of Bristol Dental School, England.
International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Balancing primary teeth extractions aim to maintain dental arch symmetry. However, scientific evidence supporting this procedure is weak, with studies suggesting unbalanced extractions may cause more tooth movement.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- Balancing extractions are performed to maintain symmetry in the developing dentition.
- Current literature presents conflicting opinions and lacks precise guidance on this procedure.
- Some authorities question the justification for balancing extractions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the procedure of balancing primary teeth extractions.
- To clarify the current, often contradictory, opinions on balancing extractions in pediatric dentistry.
Main Methods:
- Review of current dental literature and standard reference works regarding balancing extractions.
- Analysis of available scientific studies, including those comparing unilateral and bilateral primary teeth extractions.
Main Results:
- Scientific evidence supporting balancing extractions is limited and imprecise.
- One study indicated greater dental center line shift with unilateral (unbalanced) extractions compared to bilateral (balanced) ones.
- Existing literature shows confusion and contradictions regarding the necessity and application of balancing extractions.
Conclusions:
- The procedure of balancing primary teeth extractions is widely advocated by clinicians but lacks definitive experimental evidence.
- Current scientific support for balancing extractions is tenuous, necessitating further research.
- The effectiveness of balancing extractions in achieving symmetrical tooth drift requires more rigorous investigation.