Enucleation of the third molar germ has been discussed as an alternative to extractions of premolars in borderline cases of crowding in the mandibular arch. A total of 86 patients in the age group 8-17 years had their mandibular third molar germs removed bilaterally by the same procedure in local anaesthesia. Intramuscular injection of 6 mg Celeston-Chronodose R was given postoperatively. We experienced that the postoperative complications were few and the psychological reactions were acceptable.