The purpose of this study was to compare vertical changes occured during the treatment of Class II malocclusions with and without extraction. The metarial comprised of pre- and post-treatment cephalograms of 10 patients (6 girls, 4 boys) treated with the extractions of the four first premolars and of 10 patients (3 girls, 7 boys) treated without extraction. The results abtoined from the measurements done on the radiographs were evaluated statistically by using non-parametric methods. The results of this study showed that in two groups evaluated there was an increase in most of the vertical variables and the increases in the extraction group were not different than in the nonextraction group (except changes in lower incisor inclination and anterior dentoalveolar height [L1-GoMe, U1/SN-ANS/SN, respectively]). In conclusion, this study showed that only the extractions in conjuction with orthodontic treatment is not adequate in controlling the vertical changes, therefore the extrusive effects of the treatment mechanics should also be considered.

Keywords: Extraction, vertical changes, Class II malocclusion