Clinical observations regarding the treatment of traumatically avulsed mature teeth. Part 2

Abstract

Two documented cases involving avulsions of an incisor and a cuspid are reported. Long-term observations following replantations indicated factors in addition to those reported in Part 1 of this study. Endodontic metallic implants may retard the intrusive process. A fixed-bridge splint also appears to have retarded the ankylosis phenomenon. The three case reports in the two parts of this study indicated that splint time may not be a critical factor in the prognosis of replanted teeth. Calcium hydroxide failed to prevent early root resorption and eventual ankylosis in an early replantation case; the other two cases, with longer replant time, fared better without calcium hydroxide. Endodontic treatment of avulsed teeth soon after replantation is suggested; a time period of several weeks does not appear critical to the prognosis. Removal of the apical root segment prior to replantation does not appear to affect the replacement root resorption process. The reporting of long-term documented cases should be encouraged in order that replantation techniques may be evaluated.