Extraction of four second molars.

The cases presented here clearly demonstrate that the removal of second permanent molars can be effective in many cases where removal of first or second bicuspids would otherwise be recommended. Third molars can be useful components of the dentition. The Author has found that when the proper diagnosis is made and the extraction of second molars is recommended, third molars will assume their position in juxtaposition to the first permanent molar in over 75% of the cases. Although we used several methods of measuring developing mandibular third molars, we were unable to predict accurately and consistently which teeth would erupt in the proper upright position (Fig. 10). With rare exception, maxillary third molars will erupt uneventfully, but in the mandibular arch there is a much greater possibility that it may be necessary to upright or reposition the third molars.