Autotransplantation of the Lower Posterior Teeth: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

A new era in modern dentistry has emerged where tooth loss is no longer an issue as a result of rapid advancements in implantation and alveolar ridge reconstruction. Despite its wide range of indications, autotransplantation is dependent upon careful patient selection and a suitable technique to ensure successful results both functionally and aesthetically. It is possible to restore physiological occlusion, aesthetics, and masticatory function by varying implant length, diameter, surface, and design, along with autogenous, alogenous, alloplastic, or xenogenous bone substitutes. However, none of the technologies that are used in implant dentistry today can adapt to a child's growing jaw during adolescence. Thus, the young age of the patient restricts implants and creates a challenge for dentists wishing to replace missing teeth. Therefore, tooth autotransplantation can be a good option for treatment. Our objective in this review is to highlight the biological principles required for the successful autotransplantation of teeth. Limits, indications, and prognoses will be analyzed. Hopefully, with increased awareness and acceptance in the dental profession, autotransplantation will become another viable treatment option for those with compromised teeth who still have significant growth potential.

Keywords: autotransplantation; donor tooth; intentional replantation; missing teeth; oral surgery.

Figure 1. Surgical steps for autotransplantation

Adapted from [4]

Figure 2. Demonstration of autotransplantation surgical procedure of a third molar in a fresh socket of a second molar

a: Hopeless second molar. b: Extraction of a second molar with a fresh socket. c: 3D replica demonstration. d: 3D replica approximately equal to the donor tooth. e: Try-in of the third molar at the fresh socket. f: Autogenous bone grafting buccally and distally. g: Concentrated growth factor membrane applied. h: Suturing of the flap. Reproduced after written permission from [10] (this article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium)