Survival rate of autotransplanted teeth after 5 years - A retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background: Autotransplantation of teeth (TX) is a predictable treatment option, although this type of therapy is often overlooked compared to other types of restorations.

Purpose: As current literature contains few long-term studies concerning the outcome of autotransplanted immature molars, the aim was to evaluate results after a follow-up period of 5 years.

Material and methods: This retrospective study enrolled all patients treated with immature autotransplanted molars after a follow-up period of 5 years. In order to ensure comparable results, survival rate was investigated as well as clinical and radiological parameters. Contralateral teeth (TC) were used as controls for further assessments and for ensuring comparable future results.

Results: 52 patients with 66 TX were examined. Mean age at the time of surgery was 19.64 years. Tooth survival rate after 5 years was 89.39%. The results for parameters such as PPD, BOP, mobility, dental caries, periapical pathologies and endodontic treatments showed no differences. In contrast, dental restorations (p < 0.001), occlusal contacts (p = 0.003) and sensitivity (p < 0.001) differed significantly between TX and TC.

Conclusions: The current findings clearly confirm that TX is an effective alternative treatment option to fixed prosthodontic restorations and dental implants, and provides for results equivalent to those with the patients' natural teeth.

Keywords: 5-year follow-up; Autotransplantation of teeth; Clinical and radiological parameters; Control teeth; Survival rate.