Effect of autotransplantation on bone regeneration in orthodontic patients

Abstract

AIM: Horizontally impacted second molars pose a problem to orthodontists. The proximity of the crown of the second molar to the distal root of the first molar can denude the first molar distal root of periodontal ligament and bone. The option of uprighting the second molar extends the treatment time considerably and does not address the periodontal defect on the distal root of the first molar. The aim of this study is to present a protocol for the management of molar stacking complicated by bony defects in adjacent teeth, and to present the effect of autotransplantation on bone regeneration around adjacent teeth. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Fourteen autotransplanted teeth followed-up radiographically and clinically at 1 and 4 weeks, 3 and 6 months and 1 and 2 year intervals. Examination involved the amount of bone regeneration, mobility, gingival pocket depth, and vitality test. The criteria of success were stability of the transplanted teeth, bone regeneration around periodontally affected adjacent teeth and normal lamina dura formation, and normal mobility and gingival pocket depth of the transplanted teeth as compared with control teeth. Different statistical analysis was performed, including Wilcoxon signed ranks test and repeated measures ANOVA. RESULTS: The survival rate over at least 2 years (range from 2 to 7%) after autotransplantation was 92.86 per cent. Bone regeneration at the socket site and adjacent teeth was significantly improved. Mobility and gingival pocket depths of the autotransplanted teeth were normal when compared with the normal control teeth. CONCLUSION: Due to the high success rate and the advantages gained, autotransplantation should be considered as a treatment option for management of molar stacking complicated by bony defects in adjacent teeth.