Autotransplantation of teeth with complete root formation: a case series.

INTRODUCTION Autotransplantation is a viable option for treating missing teeth when a donor tooth is available. This retrospective study reports the success rate for the autotransplantation of 19 molars with complete root formation. METHODS The study enrolled 19 patients (11 men and 8 women) in whom 19 molars were transplanted. The mean age was 38.5 years (range, 19-67). The transplanted third molars were stabilized with a silk suture or wire splint for 2 to 3 weeks. Root canal treatment of the transplanted teeth was performed before surgery in six patients and 1 to 2 weeks after transplantation in 13 patients. Postoperatively, the marginal and periapical conditions were examined clinically and radiographically. RESULTS In 16 of the 19 cases, the outcome met the success criteria, for an 84% success rate. CONCLUSIONS In autogenous tooth transplantation, even if the donor tooth has complete root formation, a high success rate can be achieved if the cases are selected and treated properly.