What is the differences between first premolar and second premolar extraction?

Question

I need to get four premolars extracted before putting on braces. My orthodontist suggested 4 first premolar extraction. I am wondering why the first not the second. The reason I am asking is that the first premolar on my lower right quarter is bigger (20% or more) than the second. In addition, the canine is also long. It may look weird when the canine and the second premolar (which is small and short) becomes neighbors.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Hello there,Your orthodontist has his/her reasons for suggesting what they've suggested.  If it simply doesn't make since to you, then I would highly recommend first asking your dentist to clarify things for you.  If after a thorough explanation by him/her, you are still unsure that you agree, then I would suggest going to another orthodontist or cosmetic dentist to get a second opinion.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD

H. Ryan Kazemi, DMD · Answer

The decision for whether to extract first or second premolars is based on the bite, relationship of upper and lower teeth, teeth size, space, and other orthodontic reasons. Extraction of first premolars is probably the most common scenario. Sometimes, the orthodontist may mix first and second premolars based on which will provide the most predictable bite. Extraction of second premolars is more rare.

What is the differences between first premolar and second premolar extraction?

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