Indications for the extraction of permanent healthy teeth in dentofacial orthopedics, has been an object of polarized debate between extractionists and nonextractionist since the beginning of the twentieth century.

In a media-hyped environment, where extractions have become routine, this concern that is not addressed during consultation, poses a problem for the patient-practitioner relationship. The practitioner is confronted with a criminal liability known as a failure to respect the physical integrity of the human body and to treat in the patient's best interest. But the question remains: is it ethical to extract healthy teeth?