Effects of Premolar Extraction on the Dimensions of the Airway Through Cephalometric Appraisal: A Retrospective Study.

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a great deal of interest in research because of the changes that the extraction of premolars has caused to the structures surrounding of the upper airway. This is because it's thought that these therapies could have unforeseen detrimental effects on a patient's ability to breathe or put them at risk for diseases like obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Nevertheless, no research has looked into how the upper airway's dimensions are affected when a second premolar is extracted as part of orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was carried out on the available Pre- and Post- orthodontic treatment records (Lateral cephalograms) in order to find the effect of upper and lower premolar extractions in orthodontic treatment, on the pharyngeal airway space. The statistical sample size was determined to be 80 patients whose radiographs were obtained from the archives of the Institution. Results: Our study showed a significant increase in airway space where there was a loss in anchor and no or minimal change with maximum anchorage. Conclusion: The findings in our study suggest that anchor loss after extraction significantly impacts PAS and skeletal parameters, potentially influencing airway dynamics and skeletal relationships. Further research is necessary to elucidate the medical implications of these changes and their long-term effects on patient outcomes in orthodontic treatment.