Evaluation of the rate of permanent tooth extraction for orthodontic purposes in patients treated at the Outpatient Clinic of Orthodontics, UKS in Cracow, in 2014–2018

Standards regarding facial aesthetics, modern design of orthodontic brackets and appliances have a significant effect on the development of new techniques and approaches to treatment that includes and excludes extraction, consequently, affecting the extraction rate.

Aim
To determine a value and evaluate the rate of permanent tooth extraction for orthodontic purposes in patients treated at the Outpatient Clinic of Orthodontics, the University Dental Clinic in Kraków in 2014–2018.

Material and methods
Medical records of 2069 patients were analysed. 424 subjects were enrolled into the study and were divided into two groups. Group A included patients treated with permanent tooth extraction, and group B – without extraction. Based on the history of treatment, the indication for permanent tooth extraction and the number and type of teeth removed were determined. The value of the extraction rate for orthodontic purposes was determined and then analysed in relation to sex, skeletal class, Angle’s class. The most frequent extraction protocols were analysed.

Results
The rate of permanent tooth extraction for orthodontic purposes based on studies performed at the Outpatient Clinic of Orthodontics, UKS in Kraków was 19.34%. The analysis did not reveal statistically significant differences in the incidence of extraction in relation to sex and Angle’s class. The greatest extraction rate was reported in patients with skeletal class III (30.49%). This group included patients who often chose orthodontic-surgical treatment (36%). The results were statistically significant. The extraction of four first premolars was the most common extraction protocol (40.24%).

Conclusions
Modern methods of orthodontic treatment reduce the rate of permanent tooth extraction. The majority of extractions are performed in patients with skeletal class II and III, and it confirms that compensatory treatment of these cases is possible after taking indications into account.