Having teeth removed for orthodontic treatment is a common concern, especially regarding its potential effect on facial aesthetics. The short answer is: when done correctly by a specialist orthodontist, extracting teeth for teeth straightening will not ruin your face. In fact, it can often enhance your overall facial balance and harmony.

Why are teeth removed for orthodontics?
Teeth extractions are typically recommended in cases of:
- Severe crowding: When the jaw is too small to accommodate all the teeth, extractions create space for proper alignment.
- Protrusion: To retract teeth that stick out, creating a more harmonious profile.
- Bite correction: To address overbites, underbites, or other malocclusions that cannot be corrected otherwise.
A study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO, 2017) found that carefully planned extractions can improve the appearance of the profile, particularly in cases of dental protrusion, by enhancing the balance between the lips, nose, and chin.
Will extractions harm your face?
When treatment is properly planned, tooth extractions should improve facial aesthetics. A specialist orthodontist carefully evaluates your facial proportions, jaw structure, and smile before making any decisions.
Benefits often include:
- A more balanced facial profile.
- Proper lip closure without strain.
- A reduction in protrusion for a softer, more natural appearance.
Supporting Evidence:
Research indicates that extractions don’t inherently lead to negative facial changes. A systematic review (Journal of World Federation of Orthodontists, 2020) concluded that facial aesthetics are preserved or enhanced when orthodontic extractions are performed to achieve a harmonious balance between the teeth and soft tissues.
Risks of poor planning
Problems can arise if:
- Too many teeth are removed unnecessarily.
- The treatment doesn’t consider facial structure.
- The space from extractions isn’t managed properly.
In such cases, issues like a flatter face or less full lips might occur. However, studies have shown that these outcomes are rare and largely the result of poor planning or execution, not the extractions themselves.
Questions to ask your orthodontist
If you’re concerned, here are some key questions to ask:
- Why are extractions necessary in my case?
- How will the space created by extractions be closed?
- How will my facial profile be affected?
At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we prioritise not just straight teeth but also a beautiful, natural-looking smile and facial balance. We use advanced digital treatment planning tools to simulate and visualise outcomes before any decisions are made, ensuring the best possible results.