Modified orthodontic treatment of substitution of canines by first premolars: A case report

BACKGROUND: Canines are the most important teeth in the dentition. Usually, doctors choose to remove premolars rather than canines. Canine extraction is extremely rare in orthodontic treatment. However, dentists sometimes encounter situations in which canines require extraction due to defects caused by improper medical treatment. CASE SUMMARY: The present study reports a case of a class II adult patient treated with the extraction of maxillary canines and right mandibular second premolar. After postactive treatment for 28 mo, then the canines were substituted by the upper first premolar, a satisfactory occlusal was established, the lips were competent, and the profile was improved. Intraoral pictures and X-ray data retrieved 3 years after the end of orthodontic treatment demonstrated the possibility of canine extraction and premolar substitution of canines in function and beauty. CONCLUSION: The extraction of canines and substitution by first premolars could be a feasible orthodontic treatment.