Orthodontics: Extraction vs. Non-Extraction — Which Takes Longer?

Hello, this is Director Park Yeol! Today, I’d like to talk about orthodontics.

Everyone, there are two major types of orthodontic treatment: non-extraction orthodontics, which does not involve removing teeth, and extraction orthodontics, which does. What exactly is the difference between these two methods, and which one takes longer to complete?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, this is probably a question you’ve wondered about at least once.

Alright, let’s go through it step by step!

What’s the difference between non-extraction orthodontics and extraction orthodontics?

First, non-extraction orthodontics is exactly what it sounds like: a method of aligning teeth without removing any.

This approach is mainly suitable when the teeth are only mildly crooked or the alignment is slightly off.

For example, it applies to situations where the teeth are slightly overlapping or a little out of line, and only minor adjustment is needed to make them look aligned.

In such cases, the overall arrangement can become neat even if the teeth move only a little from their current positions.

So the distance the teeth need to move is relatively short. And of course, a shorter movement distance usually means a shorter orthodontic treatment period.

On the other hand, extraction orthodontics is a method that uses the space created by removing teeth to align the teeth.

This is usually needed when the teeth are severely crowded or protrude too far forward.

For example, when the front teeth are significantly protruding or there is not enough space because the teeth overlap too much.

In situations like this, space needs to be created in order to align the teeth, and that space is usually secured by removing the two small premolars on both sides (most often the first premolars).

Then, that empty space is used to move the front teeth and other teeth, arranging the entire dentition neatly.

Why does extraction orthodontics take longer?

Now let’s talk in earnest about treatment duration.

To put it simply, extraction orthodontics takes longer than non-extraction orthodontics. Why?

It’s because of how far the teeth need to move.

With non-extraction orthodontics, in many cases the desired alignment can be achieved with only a small amount of tooth movement.

The teeth are already positioned fairly well, so only minor adjustments are needed, which means the movement distance is short. For example, if the front teeth are off by only 1–2 mm, moving them that much may be all that’s needed. That’s why the treatment period is relatively short.

Non-extraction orthodontics

But extraction orthodontics is a little different. Once a premolar is removed, an empty space is created there.

This space is usually about 7–8 mm wide, and the teeth need to be moved to make use of it.

For example, if the front teeth protrude a lot, they need to be moved backward, and the teeth next to them also need to move toward the empty space.

In this process, the teeth have to travel a much longer distance.

In addition, it takes more time to move the teeth so that the extraction space is completely closed. That is why extraction orthodontics takes longer than non-extraction orthodontics.

Extraction orthodontics

Extraction orthodontics (premolar extraction)

How long does orthodontic treatment take? So how much time does it actually take?

I’ll explain based on patients in their 20s. Of course, everyone’s dental condition and treatment difficulty are different, but on average: Non-extraction orthodontics: about 1 year to 1 year and a half.

In cases where the teeth are relatively less complex, treatment may finish in under a year.

Extraction orthodontics: usually about 2 years to 2 years and a half. Because the teeth need to move a longer distance and there is an additional process of closing the extraction space, the treatment period becomes longer.

Of course, these are average durations, and they can vary somewhat depending on the individual’s dental condition.

How can you shorten orthodontic treatment time? If you want to shorten your orthodontic treatment even a little, here are a few tips!

Keep up with regular appointments: Orthodontic treatment requires regular visits to the dental clinic so the appliances can be adjusted and your progress checked.

If you take good care of your braces, the treatment process will go smoothly.

Maintain thorough oral hygiene: During orthodontic treatment, food can easily get stuck around the teeth and appliances.

Brushing carefully to prevent inflammation and cavities can help avoid delays in treatment.

In closing

In the end, non-extraction orthodontics can be completed relatively quickly because the teeth only need to move a short distance, while extraction orthodontics takes longer because teeth must be removed and the resulting space must be used.

But the important thing is not just the duration. What matters is choosing the orthodontic method that fits your dental condition.

Orthodontic treatment does not only create a more beautiful smile; it can also greatly help improve chewing function and oral health.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, be sure to consult an orthodontic specialist.

By considering your dental condition, lifestyle habits, and desired results, you can find the best option.

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