Extracting 4 bicuspids?

[valeriav]

Orthodontist & dentist both agree this is the way to go, but I'm so nervous. Any happy endings from 4 bicuspid removal would be great to hear.

[EWUgal15]

I had 2 teeth extracted for braces and I am super happy with my treatment so far.

This is a really good resource to look at: http://www.archwired.com/Extractions_for_Braces.htm

[valeriav]

Thanks!

[jodyxlee]

I had all of mine taken out. It was that or double jaw surgery for me...I will let you know in 2 years how it goes

[valeriav]

Haha jodyxlee I will be done in about 17 more months hopefully. We can compare as we go

[UnhappyCamper]

Hi Jodyxlee, I had bicuspid extractions and the results of my treatment have been devastating, I have a narrow smile, dished in profile and loss of lip support. Please get a second opinion. Bicuspid extractions are almost always avoidable.

[Kararenee90]

Hi Jodyxlee, I had bicuspid extractions and the results of my treatment have been devastating, I have a narrow smile, dished in profile and loss of lip support. Please get a second opinion. Bicuspid extractions are almost always avoidable.

The last line is simply not true. Extractions are most definitely needed sometimes. Your mouth might not have enough room for all of your teeth. If you need extractions and do not get them you can end up with recessed gums and flared teeth after braces. Personally I am getting 4 extractions next month. My ortho took the time to explain to me why I need the extractions and helped to assure me that my facial changes will be very minimal, if there are any.

[UnhappyCamper]

Kararenee, my ortho told me exactly the same thing. He assured me my profile would not change and if it would it would be minimal. However it has been drastic. Once the teeth are extracted there is no going back from this and its a big risk to take. If you can find an ortho who will perform your treatment without extractions please do with them. I just would not want anyone to be left in the same position as I am right now.

[jodyxlee]

My top two were taken out as a child.
My ortho did say that was a mistake, if they weren't taken out as a child my palate wouldn't be as small.
Because I didn't want surgery to expand my palate he said to achieve the best cosmetic result I had to get the bottom two removed to match the top.
I'm super happy with my results so far. Every case is different.

[Kararenee90]

Kararenee, my ortho told me exactly the same thing. He assured me my profile would not change and if it would it would be minimal. However it has been drastic. Once the teeth are extracted there is no going back from this and its a big risk to take. If you can find an ortho who will perform your treatment without extractions please do with them. I just would not want anyone to be left in the same position as I am right now.

Would you mind showing pictures of your results?

[UnhappyCamper]

I would be more than happy to PM or email you pictures. I just want you to be fully aware of the risks of bicuspid extraction and retraction. Most orthos go with this option because it is the most simple, cheapest and quickest way to give straight teeth, without any regard for facial esthetics. Make sure you fully explore all alternatives.

[ZariasMommi]

I'd like to know how it all turned out Valeriav.
I had 4 bicuspids extracted as well (May 2015) and results are great so far. I have a very small mouth. I had already been told when I was younger I needed extractions. Back then though (early 90s) they told me 8!!! MY parents didn't have the money for braces so nothing got done. I just got braces this year for my 30th bday, so when they told me 4 extractions were needed, I was happy to hear it.

Sorry to hear about your experience Unhappycamper.
I have heard a couple of stories like yours. Is there any solution for you? I hope so! I know you were doing what you thought best.

[gendy]

My ortodonthist extracted my 4 bicuspids and now i have braces for 2 months more and finish

[Zahnpasta]

My orthodontist wanted to take out four premolars, but I got him to just take out one at first, and see how it goes. I just couldn't face more extractions after my wisdom teeth. I have my braces now, and the right premolar, upper, was taken out to make space for the adjacent canine to come down.

[aaa]

I'm looking at needing the same extractions done.

It appears as though most here posting are still undergoing treatment, while the only person who's finished has a negative result. Not very reassuring...