Is lower incisor extraction treatment a compromise?

In this paper orthodontic treatment involving extraction of a lower incisor is described. This has traditionally been regarded as a compromise as loss of a lower incisor renders it impossible to achieve true ideal occlusion. However, with careful case selection, treatment planning and visualization of the post-treatment occlusion, excellent functional and aesthetic results can be achieved. The various factors that govern the decision to treat certain malocclusions in this way are discussed and a clinical case is presented to demonstrate this type of treatment.