Orthodontic Traction of the Impacted Mandibular Third Molars to Replace Severely Resorbed Mandibular Second Molars

ABSTRACT

Prophylactic removal of impacted third molars is a common procedure in dentistry, but the necessity of routine extraction is still controversial. When impacted third molars caused severe apical root resorption of the second molars, orthodontic traction of the third molars after extraction of the damaged second molars could minimize alveolar bone defect and preserve the patient's natural teeth. By well-planned orthodontic treatment, functional occlusion was established avoiding extraction of the impacted teeth and eliminating the possibility of a large bone defect after extraction.