Third molar changes following second molar extractions.

Third molars, both upper and lower, do usually erupt into the place of electively removed second molars. None of the third molars in this study group became impacted during the observation period. Second molars in this study were removed before the roots had formed on the third molars. The bifurcation line appears to be a stable reference on the panoramic radiograph. It is the Author's conclusion that the extraction of permanent second molars is best for many patients, and when judiciously applied it is a reasonably safe and conservative modality in orthodontic care.