Evaluation of Bone Growth around Autotransplanted Teeth Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Images

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this observational study was to evaluate bone growth at the recipient site of autotransplanted teeth using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and to compare it to the control tooth.

METHODS

Bone growth was measured on CBCT images obtained from the anterior region of the maxilla, which received a single transplant of immature premolars due to early loss of the central incisor. The results were compared to the bone growth of contralateral central incisor that served as control. The sample consisted of 13 autotransplanted teeth and 13 control teeth. It was determined the thickness of the buccal bone of the marginal ridge, the thickness of the palatal bone of the marginal ridge, the height of the maxillary bone, and the thickness of the maxillary bone at its mid-height. The measurements were analyzed statistically, adopting a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS

The mean interval between the dental autotransplantation surgery and the CBCT scan was 16.2 years. The mean thickness of the buccal bone of the marginal ridge, thickness of the palatal bone of the marginal ridge, height of the maxillary bone, and thickness of the maxillary bone at its mid-height were, respectively, 0.85, 0.94, 19.6, and 8.85 mm for autotransplanted teeth and 0.79, 1.09, 18.88, and 8.5 mm for control teeth. There were no significant differences in the bone measurements between autotransplanted and control teeth (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The growth of maxillary bone in the region that received the autotransplanted tooth was proportional to that of maxillary bone that supports the contralateral tooth. Thus, autogenous transplantation is efficient in maintaining the bone architecture at the recipient site.

An evaluation of 910 premolars transplanted in the anterior region-A retrospective analysis of survival, success, and complications

AIM

The aim this retrospective analysis was to evaluate the survival, success and possible complications of transplanted premolars to the anterior region subdivided in development stage and patient's age.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The material comprised patients that underwent a tooth transplantation between April 2004 and December 2021. A total of 910 premolars were transplanted in 707 patients. Tooth mobility, oral hygiene, and periodontal parameters were clinically evaluated. Standardized radiographs were used to evaluate pulpal and periodontal healing and root formation. The cumulative survival rate was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

The data were subdivided in three groups based on the stage of root development and patient's age. The average age at surgery was 16 years. The main indication for transplantation was trauma, followed by agenesis and other indications. Two premolars were lost during the whole observation period. The overall survival and success in the immature premolars group after an observation period of 10 years was 99.8%. The 10-year survival and success rate when fully developed premolars were transplanted in the anterior region in adolescents were 100% and 96.3%, respectively. In adults, the 10-year survival and success rate were 87.5%.

CONCLUSION

Transplantation of premolars with developing and fully developed roots to the anterior region in children, adolescents, and adults is a predictable treatment modality.

Guided Autotransplantation of an Immature Premolar to the Maxillary Incisor Region with Immediate Restoration of Esthetics: A Case Report

This case report describes the treatment of two maxillary central incisors following a traumatic injury with tooth #8 developing replacement resorption and #9 developing inflammatory root resorption. A 10-year-old girl presented complaining of pain in her maxillary central incisors. Upon clinical examination, teeth #8 and #9 were tender to percussion and palpation of the buccal soft tissues. Thermal and electrical pulpal sensitivity tests for teeth #8 and #9 were negative. An intraoral periapical radiograph revealed resorptive defects in tooth #8, which were filled with bone-like tissue, while tooth #9 had radiolucent resorptive defects along the root surface and a periapical radiolucency. A diagnosis of replacement resorption was made for tooth #8 and external inflammatory root resorption for tooth #9. Tooth #8 was treated with a multidisciplinary approach utilizing a guided template for premolar autotransplantation with an immediate veneer restoration, while tooth #9 was managed with root canal treatment using a tricalcium silicate cement to fill the canal. At the 1, 4, 8, 12, and 24-month follow-ups, the patient remained asymptomatic, and there was no radiographic evidence of root or periapical pathosis on either tooth. The root-end of the donor tooth transplanted to the #8 site continued to develop. This case report highlights successful interdisciplinary management of two forms of root resorption using modern treatment strategies that provided immediate function and esthetics to the maxillary central incisors in a young patient following trauma.

Enamel Veneer Rehabilitation of a Premolar to an Incisor After Autotransplantation

Tooth autotransplantation is one of the methods used for tooth loss rehabilitation in children. Premolars are usually used as autotransplants requiring esthetic alterations. The purpose of this paper is to present an innovative, alternative and inexpensive way to restore auto-transplanted teeth using the crown of the tooth of the recipient site. A seven-year-old male with a non-contributory medical history presented with an intrusion of his permanent maxillary right central incisor. The tooth underwent orthodontic extrusion using fixed appliances but eventually showed signs of ankylosis. At 10 years old, autotransplantation of a premolar to substitute the ankylosed incisor was undertaken. Six weeks after the autotransplantation, the premolar was restored to an incisor by modifying the extracted ankylosed tooth to a veneer for the transplanted tooth, providing functional and esthetic restoration. The patient has been followed up for two years without any complications. This technique can help clinicians restore autotransplants in an easy and esthetic manner.

Enhanced socket preparation during autotransplantation: a new treatment protocol

OBJECTIVE

Tooth autotransplantation (AT) is a viable option for the replacement of unrestorable or missing teeth. Recently, the use of a 3D replica of a donor tooth constructed from CBCT scans was described. The model is made to assess the recipient site's size and minimize the required extraoral time of the donor tooth after extraction. The aim of the paper was to describe a new technique for AT using the 3D replica as a socket preparation tool.

CASE REPORT

A 13-year-old boy who presented with hypodontia was referred for consultation and treatment. The treatment plan included combined orthodontic treatment and AT of the mandibular left second premolar into the site of the congenitally missing maxillary right canine. A titanium 3D model of the donor tooth was printed by a direct metal laser 3D printer utilizing the model from the CBCT scan. An intrasulcular flap was elevated, and the edentulous maxillary ridge was prepared using implant trephine burs with increasing diameters. A surgical mallet was utilized to apply vertical forces to the 3D-printed model, which was inserted into the prepared socket to allow a perfect fit for the donor tooth. After atraumatic extraction of the mandibular left second premolar, the donor tooth was inserted into the ready socket and splinted. Follow-up examinations at 1, 3, and 6 months, and 1 year after surgery demonstrated a successful outcome.

CONCLUSION

The titanium replica was successfully used for precise preparation of the recipient site, minimizing the extraoral time of the procedure to 4 minutes, and thereby improving the expected outcome. (Quintessence Int 2023;54:142-148; doi: 10.3290/j.qi.b3649031).

Computerized three-dimensional design for accurate orienting and dimensioning artificial dental socket for tooth autotransplantation

OBJECTIVE

To present an improved, accurate, and efficient method for planning and preparing an artificial socket for autotransplantation, by using a three-dimensional (3D) surgical guide and a replica of the transplanted donor tooth. The guide and the tooth replica were fabricated using a computerized 3D simulation. A case treated with this approach is presented.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and computerized 3D simulations (Simplant plus registration as stereolithography) were used for planning the optimal artificial socket position and dimensions, within the limitations of the alveolar bone borders and the adjacent teeth roots, and for producing a metal replica of the transplanted tooth. The replica was used to assure the correct socket preparation and orientation before extraction and replantation of the donor premolar.

RESULTS

The entire procedure time for autotransplantation of a permanent second premolar to the incisor site without the buccal plate was about 45 minutes. At 15 months' follow up, clinical examination of the transplanted tooth demonstrated both normal mobility and no sensitivity to cold stimulation. A radiographic examination revealed continuous root development and pulp obliteration. The adjacent teeth maintained their vitality with no pathologic signs.

CONCLUSION

We present an improved technique for autotransplantation based on computerized 3D simulations and guidance for accurate dimensioning and optimal locating of the artificial socket relative to the alveolar bone borders and the adjacent teeth roots. This technique may significantly simplify the autotransplantation procedure and will probably also increase its success rate and use in young patients, even in cases with absence of a buccal plate.

The evaluation of the transport medium for extracted premolars prior to cryopreservation: a systematic literature review

Prior to cryopreservation, a tooth is transported from a contaminated oral environment to the tooth bank. Our objective was to identify all studies reporting or investigating a transport protocol prior to the cryopreservation of teeth, in terms of decontamination of the subjects. The systematic literature search (1970-2017) was based on MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. The reference lists of the included studies and the Science Citation Index were used for hand searching (snowballing). Only studies reporting the transport conditions of the transplant were included. Language restrictions for English, Dutch or French were applied. The search led to 14 eligible studies. Almost all studies were laboratory studies, so the methodological quality of evidence was low. The majority of the included studies was performed by only five different research groups and the number of subjects varied between 1 and 120 teeth. In general, the teeth were stored in a tissue culture medium supplemented with fetal calf serum and/or different combinations of antibiotics and/or antimycotics. The teeth were transported cooled (4 °C) or at room temperature, for a period of time not exceeding 24 h. Only three studies reported the irrigation of the teeth with phosphate buffered saline prior to the transport. The optimisation of the decontamination during transport was investigated in three studies (from 1971, 1980 and 1982). It was concluded that the literature on this topic is scarce, and the decontamination protocol for teeth, prior to cryopreservation has not been validated recently.

Combined Surgical/Orthodontic Treatment and Autotransplantation of a Premolar in a Patient with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Objective

The treatment of a patient with a complete unilateral left cleft lip and palate, agenesis of the left upper second premolar, and a severely malformed left upper lateral incisor is reported. Treatment included placement of an autologous bone graft from the left iliac crest into the alveolar cleft at 8 years of age and transplantation of a lower premolar into the reconstructed alveolar process at 10 years of age. During the succeeding orthodontic treatment, the dental arches were aligned and corrected toward a Class I molar occlusion. One year after the end of treatment, the status of the transplanted premolar was good.

Histomorphometric Analysis of Contaminated Autogenous Tooth Graft Materials After Various Sterilization

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate histomorphometrically contaminated autogenous tooth graft materials, which were resterilized.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The intentional defects (diameter: 8 mm, depth: 4 mm) were formed around implant fixture on the iliac crest of 6 mongrel dogs. Autogenous tooth graft materials were made by extracted premolars. After the contamination of the tooth materials, graft procedure was performed; no contaminated group (control group), contaminated groups (nonsterilization group [group 1], ethylene oxide [EO] gas group [group 2], and autoclave group [group 3]). The bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and the new bone formation rate (NBFR) were evaluated after sacrifice.

RESULTS

The BIC and NBFR of groups 1 and 3 were significantly lower than the control group after 4 weeks. The BIC and NBRF of group 3 were significantly lower than the control group after 8 weeks. However, the BIC and NBRF of group 2 was not significantly different comparing with the control group after 4 and 8 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Sterilization using EO gas may be more favorable than high-pressure sterilization in cases the reuse of contaminated autogenous tooth graft materials.

Long-term evaluation and clinical outcomes of children with dental transplants in Temuco city, Chile

AIM

To assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes of 36 transplanted teeth and the possible factors affecting the results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 26 children, 36 teeth transplants were performed. The main reason for transplantations was the loss of anterior teeth due to trauma; 80.5% of transplanted teeth were immature bicuspids. The transplants were clinically and radiolographycally monitored in respect of pulp vitality, root canal obliteration, periradicular changes and root formation. Fisher Exact Test and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed to determine the association between the variables and estimation of survival rates, respectively.

RESULTS

Thirty (83.3%) of the transplantations were recorded as successful and six as unsuccessful (16.7%). The survival rate was 97.2% during average time of 47.5 months ± 27.8 SD. Only one tooth had been extracted and 5 had survived in not ideal conditions. The majority of immature transplanted teeth developed pulp canal obliteration.

CONCLUSION

Factors associated to successful outcome were immature root formation of donor tooth and short flexible splinting period. The main factor associated to failure was replacement resorption. The surgical technique did not present statistical significance in the clinical outcome. Tooth transplantation has shown high success and survival rates, and should be considered as a real option in growing patients.

Autotransplantation of maxillary second premolars to mandibular recipient sites where the primary second molars were impacted, predisposes for complications

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to elucidate whether ankylosis of a transplanted permanent tooth can be predicted based on an evaluation of the primary and permanent dentitions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study comprised 162 maxillary second premolars and 49 third molars transplanted to the mandibular second premolar region in 157 patients treated in the period 1980-2003.

SELECTION CRITERIA

panoramic radiograph available; agenesis of the mandibular permanent premolar/s; persistence of the primary molar at the recipient site. The 211 transplanted teeth were observed for a period of between 1-29 years.

RESULTS

Seven per cent (95% confidence interval, CI = 3-11%) of the transplanted second premolars ankylosed during the first 10 years after operation. The success rate for transplantation of the third molar to the mandibular second premolar region was significantly lower (p = 0.001), as 40% (95% CI = 24-57%) of the third molars had ankylosed 10 years after operation. A significant association (p = 0.022) was found between ankylosis of a second premolar and infra-position of the primary second molar located at the recipient site. The infraposition group had 13% (CI = 4-23%) ankylosis after 10 year, whereas the non-infraposition group had 5% (CI = 1-9%) ankylosis after 10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study concludes that there is an increased risk of ankylosis of the transplanted permanent tooth if the primary tooth at the recipient site is in infraposition. This observation may be decisive for treatment planning, especially in young individuals in whom excessive growth of the alveolar process is expected from the cephalometric analysis.

Transplantation of a tooth involved in dentigerous cyst

To salvage an uneruputed tooth within a dentigerous cyst, the retransplantation of the unerupted premolar involved in the dentigerous cyst was performed. In the present case a dentigerous cyst with the impacted maxillary second premolar of a 10-year-old boy was removed, because of the missing eruption after marsupialisation of the premolar 4 months earlier. Covering the crown and the one third of root, the cyst was removed from the tooth, and the premolar was retransplanted into a cavity created between the premolar and first molar in the maxilla. The tooth was fixed with resin and a twisted wire for 1 month. Two years after transplantation, the tooth responded positively to pulp vitality tests but did not move toward the occlusal line, and dental X-ray showed a lamina dura, mineralisation of the pulp cavity, no root resorption and development.

Autotransplantation of impacted teeth: a report of 3 cases and review of the literature

Transplantation of one's own teeth from one site to another is called dental autotransplantation. Because tooth transplantation allows dentofacial development and maintains alveolar bone volume, it is a viable treatment method, especially in young patients with missing teeth or tooth agenesis. Three cases are presented in which missing or agenetic teeth were replaced by autotransplantation of impacted teeth. This article illustrates the option of using impacted teeth as a viable reservoir for autotransplantation in young patients with missing permanent teeth.

Transplantation of premolars as an approach for replacing avulsed teeth

Autotransplantation of premolars to the anterior region subsequent to tooth loss represent a unique treatment method that has a number of advantages in comparison with other tooth substitution methods. A tooth transplant has a bone inducing capacity implying that lost labial bone is regenerated. Secondly the tooth precipitates growth of the alveolar procces and allows treatment to be performed at an early age (10-12 years) where the trauma incidence is at its maximum. Finally transplanted teeth can be moved orthodontically. These characteristics make implant solutions appealing in a number of situations. The procedure consist in selecting a premolar in a optimal root development stage which is approximately three fourths root formation where optimal pulp and periodontal ligament healing can be achieved in more than 90 percent of the cases. The tooth is later after slight crown remodeling restored with composite or a porcelain laminate. Four recent long-term studies have shown survival rates between 90-98 percent and a single long term study (33 years) showed a survival rate of 90 percent, a survival rate not surpassed by any other type of tooth replacement (fixed or removable prostetics, implants). In conclusion premolar transplantation should be considered in cases of early loss of a permanent tooth.

[Use of laser Doppler flowmetry in dentistry]

An early determination of pulpal vitality is crucial with respect to a correct differential diagnosis of revascularisation or necrosis and its treatment. The use of sensibility tests (cold, heat, electrical pulp test) in combination with X-ray are commonly promoted. However these tests are arbitrary, based on sensations and therefore not always reliable. In such situation the registration of 'real' pulpal blood flow and hence pulp vitality will be more than an added value. The most studied and well documented method is laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) as it is non invasive, direct and objective. In this article we describe blood flow, LDF and its characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of this method and the newest developments regarding LDF. Despite a low implementation of LDF in Belgium, this technique proved to belong indisputable to the basic assets of a dental clinic. A number of cases are described to demonstrate the efficacy and added value of LDF in assessing tooth vitality.

Case report: autotransplantation for a missing permanent maxillary incisor

Patients with nonrestorable or missing anterior teeth are typically seen by their general or pediatric dentist who directs the course of consultation, referral, and treatment. In the mixed dentition stage, loss of permanent maxillary incisors is usually treated by various forms of removable/fixed prosthetic appliances. Because premolars are developing during this time period, transplantation of an available premolar to an incisor position is a viable alternative, that may provide a better biological substitute for a missing incisor than other choices. The purpose of this case report was to describe the treatment of the loss of a permanent maxillary central incisor by transplantation of a maxillary first premolar to the incisor position. Autotransplantation allowed normal alveolar bone development and a future option of permanent restoration without implants or partial dentures. Autotransplantation should be given consideration as a reasonable option for the treatment of missing incisors in mixed dentition.

Autotransplantation of a supplemental premolar: a case report

In this article, we describe the autotransplantation of a supplemental premolar to replace an extracted first permanent molar in a 12-year-old boy. Although the end results are not ideal due to the small size of the donor tooth, the esthetics and function of the dental arch are partly restored using a natural tooth rather than a prosthesis. This case report illustrates the usefulness of autotransplantation as a viable treatment option in children with missing permanent teeth.

Dental avulsion: therapeutic protocols and oral health-related quality of life

AIM

The aim of this study is to describe oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among patients who have had a complete dislocation of the tooth out of its socket (tooth avulsion). The study also sought to identify clinical evidence, associated with OHRQoL, of the ideal therapeutic choice after tooth avulsion among these patients under 18 years old.

STUDY DESIGN

73 patients under 18 year old were selected between 101 studied; they received different treatments, after one year adverse impacts on OHRQoL were measured using the 14-item OHIP.

RESULTS

Our findings show that if patients got into tooth avulsion their quality of life is adversely affected. In this study, 21.2% of subjects reported 1 or more of the 14 OHIP items during the preceding 12 months, which is significantly high. In group A just 4% of subjects reported 1 or more of the 14 OHIP items, while in the other groups the percentage rose, reaching 50% in group F. Group C D G reported a value of 20%, while in group E this is 12%. CONCLUSION This study shows how different treatment options have different effects on quality of life; the ideal one is the immediate replantation, when this is not possible, RPD or functional appliance seem to be the best choice.

Tooth loss treatment in the anterior region: autotransplantation of premolars and cryopreservation

Avulsed and lost anterior teeth are common in young people. Using autotransplantation, it is possible to move problems in dental arches to regions where they are more easy to solve orthodontically. Transplantation of premolars with three-quarter root formation or full root formation with wide-open apical foramina provides the best prognosis for long-term survival. This article describes the use of autotransplantation and orthodontic treatment, together with cryopreservation, in connection with complicated trauma in the anterior region of an 8-year-old girl.

Cryopreservation of human teeth for future organization of a tooth bank—A preliminary study

This study was aimed at evaluating whether cryopreserved teeth can be used for future transplantation by examining the viability and differentiation capability of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and measuring the hardness of dental hard tissue. Fifty-four teeth were divided into two groups, control and frozen teeth. A MTT assay and a TUNEL assay were performed for the examination of the viability and apoptotic death of PDL cells. Immunohistochemical staining for alkaline phosphatase was performed to observe whether the differentiation capability of PDL cells was maintained by the freezing and thawing procedure. Hardness was measured to detect whether dental hard tissue was affected by the freezing conditions. The MTT and TUNEL assays showed no significant difference in the viability of PDL cells between the two groups. The differentiation capability of PDL cells was maintained in frozen teeth as evidenced by alkaline phosphatase staining. The hardness of frozen teeth was not changed, but a longitudinal fracture was found in 25% of the frozen group. The viability and differentiation capability of PDL cells were maintained in a frozen environment; however, it is thought that a new cryopreservation method preventing fracture of dental hard tissue should be developed for clinical application.

Auto-transplantation in the restorative management of traumatized anterior teeth: a case report

Auto-transplantation can be used to replace missing anterior teeth following traumatic injuries. This technique has the advantage (over other forms of treatment) of maintaining alveolar bone height which allows orthodontic and further restorative intervention by way of implants later in life. Careful restorative management of transplanted teeth is vital to their long-term survival as inadequate maintenance post transplant may result in root resorption and eventual tooth loss. This paper describes the restorative management of two cases following transplantation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Dental practitioners should be aware of the option to auto-transplant teeth as part of an overall treatment plan and the subsequent interventions often required.

Clinical management of regional odontodysplasia

Regional odontodysplasia (ROD) is a rare, localized developmental anomaly of the dental tissues with distinctive clinical, radiographic, and histologic findings. The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics and clinical management of 2 patients diagnosed with ROD at the Pediatric Dentistry Service at the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain. In both cases, temporary and permanent dentition were involved. It was concluded that therapeutic decisions during childhood must be based on the degree of involvement and each case's functional and aesthetic needs. Autotransplantation may be a good partial treatment option during the period of mixed dentition in some cases. Definitive treatment will include prosthetic rehabilitation with implants once the patient reaches adulthood.

Root length in transplanted premolars

The objectives of the present prospective longitudinal study were to establish the survival and success rates for premolars with partly developed roots transplanted according to a set protocol, and to analyze the effect of varying pre-surgery root development on final root length. Standardized periapical radiographs of 132 consecutively transplanted premolars were obtained at predetermined intervals over a 4-year follow-up period. Survival and success rates were calculated on the basis of presence of teeth and recording of defined radiological variables, respectively. Final root length was compared to normative metric data for root morphology. From the total sample, 54 patients with 68 transplanted premolars suitable for analysis of root growth relative to initial root length were identified, and divided into subsamples according to root length pre-transplantation. Survival rates were 100% after 1, 2, and 3 years, and 98.6% 4 years post-transplantation. The success rates were 92.9%, 92.8%, 89%, and 90.5% in subsamples collected 1, 2, 3, and 4 years after transplantation, respectively. The transplants obtained on average 78% of normative root length, and by dichotomizing the transplanted teeth in subsamples with 'short' and 'long' roots pre-surgery, similar final root lengths were observed even if 'short' roots had the greatest increase. Very early transplantation (roots < 7 mm), however, tended to result in short final root length. It is concluded that the success and survival rates were comparable to results obtained in similar studies. Initial root length was a significant predictor of root length increase. Transplanting teeth with short roots is to risk short final root length.

Treatment Options of Untreatable Traumatized Anterior Maxillary Teeth for Future Use of Dental Implantation

The anterior maxilla is the most traumatized region during childhood. Posttraumatic complications occasionally lead to tooth loss as well as the need for future implants. Unfortunately, it is contraindicated to place dental implants during childhood. A waiting period of approximately 8 to 10 years before completion of growth is required. For this patient to become a candidate for future dental implants, it is necessary to ensure the continuous growth and to preserve the dimensions of the alveolar process until growth has ceased from time of injury until joint maturation. To achieve these goals, it is essential to coordinate the treatment sequence at the time of trauma. After loss of a traumatized anterior permanent maxillary incisor in young adults, treatment options are limited: orthodontic closure of the gap and reshaping the adjacent teeth, or tooth extraction and maintaining the gap with a temporary restoration. Orthdontic space closure has limited indications and requires prosthetic restoration of at least 2 teeth. Extraction and temporary restoration will usually lead to bone augmentation before implantation. Other possible treatment options include orthodontic extrusion of the root remnant (in cases of untreatable root fracture or complicated crown-root fracture) and a temporary crown to serve the patient until the completion of growth and development, autogenous tooth transplantation, intentional extraction and immediate tooth replantation, distraction osteogenesis, and decoronation. Because general rules do not apply, individual treatment plans are necessary.

Autotransplantation of premolars to premolar sites. A long-term follow-up study of 40 consecutive patients

This article describes the long-term outcome of 40 consecutive patients having transplanted premolars. The objective of this ongoing study is to investigate survival rate, pulp survival rate, periodontal condition, and root development of autotransplanted premolars in orthodontic patients. This report covers 17 years; 32 orthodontic patients had 40 premolars transplanted into contralateral or opposing jaw quadrants where a premolar was missing. The teeth were examined systematically with clinical and radiographic measures at 1, 2, 6, 12, and 60 months or more after autotransplantation. The observation time varied from 2 years 5 months to 22 years 3 months, with a mean of 10 years 4 months. Bonded.018-in edgewise appliances were used, subjecting 87.5% of the transplanted teeth to normal orthodontic forces. One tooth was removed because of root fracture during the observation period, and 2 more had complications possibly related to the transplantation. The remaining 37 teeth and their supporting structures were all healthy at the last examination--a 92.5% success rate. Transplants with closed apices received endodontic therapy, but, in those with open or half-open apices, a 66% pulp survival rate was observed. No teeth in the sample had signs of replacement resorption or developed periodontal attachment loss. Inflammatory resorption in 2 teeth was arrested after endodontic treatment. Root formation, when not complete, continued on transplanted teeth, giving normal root form and adequate root length for normal function. It is concluded that autotransplantation of premolars combined with orthodontic treatment should be the first treatment alternative in cases of missing premolars, when a suitable donor tooth is available.

Histologic analysis of pulpal revascularization of autotransplanted immature teeth after removal of the original pulp tissue

The survival rate of replanted and autotransplanted teeth is mainly affected by the reaction of the pulp. Pulpal necrosis can cause periapical inflammation and inflammatory root resorption. The purpose of this study is to learn more about the pulpal changes in autotransplanted immature teeth whose pulp tissue was removed before transplantation. The experimental material consisted of 16 single-rooted teeth with open apices, from a beagle dog (3 months of age). At day 0, 4 teeth were extracted, the pulpal tissues were removed, and the teeth were then transplanted to their contralateral side. The same procedure was carried out on days 9, 16, and 23, each time for 4 single-rooted teeth. Longitudinal paraffin sections were made for histologic investigation. The results showed that, after 7 days, 2 of the 4 teeth had an ingrowth of new tissue over one fourth of their length. After 14 days, all 4 teeth had ingrowth (> or =one fourth of the pulp chamber). At the 21-day observation, more than half of the pulp chambers of all teeth were filled, and, after 30 days, there was total ingrowth in 3 of the 4 teeth. This new tissue consisted of well-organized and well-vascularized connective tissue.

Endodontic retreatment of an autotransplanted lower first premolar: a case report

A 24-year-old female with no contributory medical history had been treated by orthodontic alignment and transplantation of the lower left first premolar to the upper left first premolar site to correct for congenitally missing upper premolars. Subsequently, the transplanted premolar was treated by conventional endodontics and apical surgery for persistent periapical periodontitis over a span of 12 years. A combination of conventional endodontic retreatment and periapical surgery resulted in periapical healing. This case outlines the need for careful preoperative case assessment.

Transplantation of bicuspids in a case of aplasia of the lower central incisors

The relatively unusual aplasia of both lower central incisors was treated by mesialization of the lateral incisors and cuspids, with a stable anterior dental arch thus being established. The resulting spaces in the posterior area were closed by autogenous transplantation of teeth 15 and 25 into the lower jaw.

Transplantation of a lower bicuspid after traumatic loss of three upper incisors

BACKGROUND

Prosthodontic and orthodontic procedures have been described for the treatment of patients with traumatic loss of teeth.

PATIENT AND METHODS

Both upper central incisors and the upper right lateral incisor had to be extracted in an 8-year-old patient after failure of conservative procedures following a sports accident. The patient was treated on a temporary basis with a space retainer as a substitute for the teeth. Definitive therapy was carried out by transplanting a lower bicuspid germ into the upper arch with subsequent orthodontic gap closure.

RESULTS

8 years after the intervention, the transplanted tooth is still in place. The patient is fully rehabilitated both functionally and esthetically with no discomfort.

CONCLUSIONS

The transplantation of bicuspid germs in conjunction with orthodontic gap closure is a valuable alternative to prosthodontic treatment, particularly in the case of loss or aplasia of several teeth.

Functional fixation of autotransplanted tooth germs by using bioresorbable membranes

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of a bioresorbable membrane placement to the healing of immature teeth after autotransplantation of tooth buds.

STUDY DESIGN

Six cases were selected: 2 transplantations of wisdom teeth, 2 for premolar agenesis, 1 for ectopia, and 1 premolar in an incisor position. The crown of each tooth germ and the marginal alveolar bone were covered with a resorbable membrane.

RESULTS

The radicular edification was nearly complete, neither ankylosis nor inflammatory resorption was observable, the pulp vitality was preserved, and the periodontal integration was identical to that of other teeth. The membrane ensured contention and stabilization of the transplant, allowed functional stimulation, permitted protection of the coagulum and periodontal cells, and kept the epithelium at a distance.

CONCLUSIONS

The transplantations of immature teeth were improved by the use of a resorbable membrane, which caused an optimal functional fixation of the transplanted tooth.

Nonprosthodontic management of alveolar clefts with 2 incisors missing on the cleft side: a report of 5 patients

A treatment combining autotransplantation of developing premolars and orthodontic space closure is described as an alternative to prosthodontics in the management of patients with alveolar clefts when 2 cleft-side incisors are missing. We report on 5 consecutive patients with unilateral clefts in whom 2 cleft-side incisors were congenitally missing, severely malformed, ectopically erupting, or lost because of trauma. In each instance, a mandibular premolar with a partly developed root was transplanted to the central incisor region (3 patients had previously undergone alveolar bone grafting). Root growth continued in all transplants. After an observation period of 2 years 6 months to 7 years 8 months, all transplanted teeth were present and fulfilled the established success criteria. The physiologic status of the transplanted premolars compared favorably with that of the central incisor on the noncleft side. The appearance of the reshaped transplants was found to match the noncleft incisor in 3 patients and deviated somewhat in 2. We concluded that an acceptable clinical outcome can be obtained by tooth transplantation combined with orthodontic space closure in patients with alveolar clefts and 2 missing cleft-side incisors.

The treatment of an avulsed maxillary central incisor by transplantation of an embedded mandibular premolar

Avulsion, following traumatic injuries, is relatively infrequent. The treatment of avulsed teeth is by replantation of the avulsed tooth into its own socket. However, sometimes the avulsed tooth cannot be found at the accident site. We report a case in which the avulsed maxillary central incisor is replaced by an embedded lower premolar. A 2-year follow-up shows complete periodontal healing and a very satisfactory clinical result.

The esthetic outcome of autotransplanted premolars replacing maxillary incisors

Autotransplantation of developing premolars to replace maxillary incisors has been documented to provide physiologically sound results, but comprehensive studies of the esthetic outcome have not been made previously. In order to assess the applicability of this approach and to identify factors important for planning of treatment, 22 autotransplanted premolars reshaped to incisor morphology were compared to their natural, contralateral maxillary incisors by scoring of features considered important for esthetics (color, soft tissue appearance, tooth morphology, and position). The sum of scores for each feature was used to place the reshaped transplant in one of three categories - Match, Deviate, Mismatch. The 22 patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire which addressed the same features that were examined professionally, and the responses were categorized as either Satisfied, Acceptable, or Dissatisfied. Eleven of the 22 patients had received orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances following the transplantation. Most of the transplanted premolars matched the contralateral incisor, and the majority of patients were satisfied with the appearance of the transplant. Fourteen percentage of the transplants were categorized as Mismatch and 18% of patients reported dissatisfaction. The distribution in categories assessed professionally and by the patients was not significantly different. The color and gingival width of the transplanted tooth were scored as different from the natural incisor in about half of the bilateral comparisons. For those teeth categorized professionally as Mismatch and by patients as Dissatisfied, a potential for esthetic improvement could be identified, as allocation to these categories was primarily due to suboptimal positioning and restorative build-up of the transplant. Inter-disciplinary planning is important for successful esthetic results.

Monitoring pulp vitality after transplantation of teeth with mature roots: a case report

AIM

To initiate discussion on the value of routine root canal treatment for transplanted teeth.

SUMMARY

Autotransplantation is an accepted treatment option to replace missing teeth. It is generally considered that revascularization of the pulp following such a procedure is more favourable in teeth with immature roots. In teeth with closed apices root canal treatment is considered necessary. This paper presents a case of pulp revascularization in a transplanted tooth with mature roots and casts doubt on whether root canal treatment is essential in such situations. An alternative treatment protocol is proposed.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

* Following transplantation original pulp tissue may survive the operation. * Teeth with obliterated pulp space do not become necrotic more often than those without obliteration. * Monitoring the tooth is an acceptable alternative to automatic root canal treatment for transplanted teeth. * Root canal treatment should be undertaken only upon occurrence of pathological signs.

Application of enamel matrix derivative in autotransplantation of an impacted maxillary premolar: a case report

BACKGROUND

The success of tooth transplantation or replantation depends on the viability of periodontal ligament in the planted tooth. Mechanical injury to periodontal tissues frequently results in dental root resorption and dental ankylosis, which leads to the failure of transplantation or replantation. Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has been recently used to induce periodontal regeneration. In this report, we show a clinical case of EMD application in the transplantation of an inversely impacted and immature tooth.

METHODS

An impacted second premolar was found in the right maxilla of a 16 year-old girl. The tooth was inversely impacted and the dental root was incomplete. When transplantation was carried out, EMD was applied to the periodontal tissues of the extracted premolar. The tooth was fixed at the correct position and the clinical condition was followed for evaluation for 6 months.

RESULTS

Radiographs after 3 months exhibited new bone formation surrounding the transplanted tooth. After 6 months, considerable growth of dental root was evident, periodontal ligament-like radiolucency appeared, the vital reaction of the planted tooth was detected, and there were no signs of root resorption or ankylosis.

CONCLUSION

Short-term results from this case indicate that EMD application was effective in the transplantation of an inversely impacted and immature tooth and that EMD might contribute to the growth of dental root and to the prevention of ankylosis.

Outcome of tooth transplantation: survival and success rates 17-41 years posttreatment

The literature contains no follow-up studies of transplanted teeth with mean observation times exceeding 10 years. This article describes long-term outcomes, including gingival and periodontal conditions, and the patients' attitudes about treatment and outcome. The material comprised all accessible patients in the files of the Department of Orthodontics, University of Oslo, Norway, on whom treatment had been performed at least 17 years ago (n = 28). Established clinical criteria were used to assess tooth mobility, plaque and gingival indexes, and probing pocket depth. Standardized radiography was used to evaluate the presence of pathology, pulp obliteration, and root length. Similar recordings were obtained from the in situ tooth contralateral to the initial position of the grafted tooth. Criteria for determining treatment success were established. All patients responded to questions about their treatment using visual analogue scales. The mean age at surgery was 11.5 years, and the mean observation period was 26.4 years (range, 17-41 years). Of the 33 teeth transplanted in the 28 patients, 3 teeth were lost after 9, 10, and 29 years, respectively. Therefore, the 30 teeth in the 25 patients we examined yielded a survival rate of 90%. The success rate was 79% because 2 transplants had ankylosed, and 2 others failed to fulfill the proposed criteria. The patients generally responded very favorably regarding their perception of the treatment. Their only hesitation was related to some discomfort during surgery. It was concluded that survival and success rates for teeth autotransplanted when the root is partly developed compare favorably in a long-term perspective with other treatment modalities for substituting missing teeth.

Eruption pattern of autotransplanted premolars visualized by radiographic color-coding

Eruption patterns and root growth were visualized with the use of a new technique, radiographic color-coding, for comparison of the development of autotransplanted premolars with contralateral control teeth. Rates of eruption and root growth were studied. The eruption pattern and rate was assessed relative to the first molar. Maximum rates were found to occur between 30 and 60 days after transplantation. There were no significant differences between transplants and their contralaterals. Two distinct categories of eruption patterns were demonstrated. One group showed a tendency toward an initial rate of transplant eruption that was somewhat faster than that of the contralaterals. The other group showed initially retarded eruption. Possible explanations were discussed. Because no significant differences between the transplants and the contralaterals were observed, it was concluded that autotransplantation is a sound treatment option for substitution of missing teeth, at least from a tooth development point of view.

Autotransplantation of premolars to replace maxillary incisors: a comparison with natural incisors

The published literature contains no comprehensive studies that compare the outcome of premolar autotransplantation to the maxillary anterior region with natural incisors in the same patients. This article describes the gingival and periodontal conditions around premolars transplanted to the maxillary incisor region, subsequent to restoration. Forty-five premolars autotransplanted to the maxillary incisor region in 40 adolescent patients were evaluated after a mean observation period of 4.0 years. Mean age at surgery was 11.0 years. Established clinical criteria were used to assess tooth mobility, plaque and gingival indexes, probing pocket depth, and percussion. Recession and hyperplasia of interproximal gingival papillae were assessed according to a recently proposed index. Standardized radiography was used to evaluate presence of pathosis, pulp obliteration, root length, and crown-root ratios. Clinical variables for transplants did not differ from those of the natural incisors, except for increased mobility and more plaque in a few transplanted premolars. The interproximal gingival papillae adjacent to all transplanted teeth were normal or slightly hyperplastic. Radiographically, all transplants showed varying degrees of pulp obliteration, but no signs of pathosis. Crown-root ratios were similar for natural and transplanted teeth as were distances from cementoenamel junction to marginal bone. The overall status of the transplanted premolars and surrounding tissues indicated that this treatment modality may be recommended when maxillary incisors are missing in adolescents. In addition, tooth transplantation represents an inherent potential for bone induction and reestablishment of a normal alveolar process.

Orthodontic application of color image addition to visualize differences between sequential radiographs

A new technique was developed making it possible to visualize changes that take place after premolar transplantation. Three sequential radiographs from a series of standardized control examinations were digitized and registered to the first radiograph in the series using subtraction technique. The digitized radiographs were then transformed into monochromatic images: red, blue, and green. After correction of gray level and contrast, the three radiographs were superimposed. All details that were common in the radiographs were then displayed in black-and-white. Details that were different appeared in color. Red and blue combines into magenta, blue and green into cyan, and green and red into yellow. A procedure was developed to create color-coded radiographs according to the above. The procedure was applied to cases that had been treated by premolar transplantation. The color coding offers the possibility to identify any radiographic changes that take place over time, eg, growth, apposition or resorption of bone, and progression or regression of pathological processes.

Treatment of lower second premolar agenesis by autotransplantation: four-year evaluation of eighty patients

The frequency of agenesis of the second lower premolar is 2.5-4%. In growing patients, early extraction of the deciduous molar and subsequent closure of the space is a common therapy, but in some cases space closure is deemed unlikely and autotransplantation is an alternative. The aim of the study was to analyze the outcome of autotransplantation in replacing missing lower second premolars and to evaluate the associated presurgical orthodontic treatment. The material consisted of records of all patients with teeth transplanted to the lower second premolar region during the period 1988-89 at the Department of Oral Surgery, Eastman Institute, Stockholm. The following variables were registered: sex, age, number of transplanted teeth, donor tooth, root development, recipient site, orthodontic treatment, persisting temporary molar, total number of congenitally missing teeth, the surgeon responsible, and clinical and radiological follow-up variables. Of 110 transplanted teeth, 99 had not completed root formation, and in 11 teeth the root formation was completed. The success rates after 4 years were 92% and 82%, respectively. Both premolars and molars served as donor teeth, but the main donor tooth was the upper second premolar. Fourteen percent had been orthodontically treated only because of the transplantation, i.e. to open the space for the donor tooth. Treatment of agenesis of the second lower premolar by autotransplantation has a good prognosis. In growing individuals the transplant not only maintains growth and development of the alveolar ridge but also provides a permanent solution to the agenesis.

Autotransplantation as a treatment option after loss of a maxillary permanent incisor tooth. A case report

A case is described of the management of a maxillary left permanent incisor, damaged by several traumatic injuries, in a 13-year-old girl. The traumatized incisor tooth required extraction and as part of an orthodontic treatment plan, a mandibular left second premolar was surgically transplanted to the prepared extraction socket at the maxillary anterior alveolus. After splinting, the transplanted tooth underwent endodontic treatment, because of pulpal necrosis. Orthodontic treatment commenced 3 months post-transplantation. Permanent root obturation was provided after orthodontic treatment and a porcelain veneer was placed to restore aesthetic appearance. The case emphasizes the importance of correct case selection, a multidisciplinary approach to treatment planning, and regular follow-up for transplanted teeth.