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Autotransplantation of a maxillary third molar to replace a maxillary premolar with vertical root fracture.

Tsurumachi T, Kakehashi Y

Department of Endodontics, Division of Advanced Dental Treatment, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan. tsurumachi@dent.nihon-u.ac.jp

AIM: To report the successful autotransplantation of a fully developed third molar that required nonsurgical and surgical interventions for tooth adaptation. SUMMARY: This case report describes the autotransplantation of a third molar with complete root development after the loss of a fractured premolar in a 47-year-old male. To allow better adaptation of the donor tooth, the buccal roots of the third molar were removed using a diamond bur and the canal entrances were filled. Recall examination 6 years after completion of root-canal treatment showed normal periodontal healing with absence of infection, ankylosis or progressive resorption. The transplantation of a third molar is seen as a promising method to replace a lost permanent tooth, and to restore aesthetics and function. KEY LEARNING POINTS: *Autotransplantation is a viable option for the treatment of a missing tooth or for replacement of traumatized tooth when there is a donor tooth available. *Fully developed third molars are potentially reliable candidates in the absence of other suitable donor teeth.

Published 12 November 2007 in Int Endod J, 40(12): 970-8.
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