Autotransplantation of a maxillary third molar with closed roots
Asgary S., Ahmadyar M.
Autogenous tooth transplantation (ATT) is a simple and economical option for the treatment of missing teeth when a suitable donor tooth is available. This case report presents an unconventional case of successful ATT of a maxillary third molar replacing the adjacent tooth with a perio-endo lesion. Despite complete root development of the third molar, no endodontic treatment was carried out either during or after ATT. After atraumatic extraction of the molars, root-end fillings with calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement was placed in the third molar roots and the tooth was immediately transplanted into the recipient socket. At 6-month and 2-year clinical examinations, the patient was asymptomatic and the transplanted tooth was still functional with no evidence of marginal periodontal pathosis. Radiographic evaluation illustrated bone regeneration of the previous extensive periapical lesion, normal periodontal ligament (PDL) and absence of root resorption. Transplantation of mature third molars by placing a CEM retrofilling may be considered a simple/practical alternative for replacing lost permanent molar teeth. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S.