Missing anterior teeth: orthodontic closure and transplantation as viable options to conventional replacements

Anterior tooth autotransplantation: a case series

Tooth autotransplantation is the technique of transplanting embedded, impacted or erupted teeth from one site into another in the same individual. It is relatively common for the anterior segment of the mouth to be affected by traumatic tooth injuries, impacted and/or congenitally missing permanent teeth. Autotransplantation of teeth into the anterior dental arch can provide unrivalled biological solutions when such issues arise in this critical aesthetic zone, particularly for adolescent patients. The combination of meticulous pre-surgical assessment, synergistic interdisciplinary collaboration and carefully performed anterior tooth autotransplantation has been demonstrated to achieve impressive outcomes, with respect to both transplant survival and clinical success. © 2023 Australian Dental Association.

Tooth Autotransplantation as an Alternative Biological Treatment: A Literature Review

Tooth autotransplantation is the treatment modality in which a tooth is transferred from one site to another in the same person. This technique has a history of centuries. However, it is not well-known or well-documented. Essential aspects of the clinical procedure, criteria for performing tooth autotransplantation, advantages, disadvantages, and complications are also discussed in the review. It has been a public health concern considering the prevalence of dental trauma in children, the financial burden of treatment, and the long recovery times associated with dental injuries. There is evidence that tooth autotransplantation is an effective method of restoring missing teeth, particularly for growing children. Even if autotransplantation fails, the soft tissue and bone conditions would likely still be suitable for subsequent implant treatment. Appropriate patient and tooth selection are essential to the technique's success. Other prognostic factors are also discussed. The findings from the available literature suggest that tooth autotransplantation is a viable and cost-effective technique. This paper discusses the literature and protocols the authors implemented for autotransplantation of the tooth.

Autotransplantation of third molars: a literature review and preliminary protocols

Tooth autotransplantation (the movement of a tooth from one site to another in the same person) is a technique with a history dating back many centuries. However, the use of third molars as donor teeth is perhaps less well-recognised and less documented. A review of the current literature was undertaken with particular attention to the use of the third molar as the donor tooth. The selection process, surgical procedure and follow-up pathways were summarised in the review. Appropriate patient selection was found to be a key factor in the success of the technique. Other prognostic factors were also discussed. The findings from the available literature suggest that autotransplantation is a viable and cost-effective technique. However, the literature relating to the use of third molars as donor teeth for autotransplantation is limited and there are currently no evidence-based guidelines or protocols relating to the technique. This paper discusses the literature and protocols the authors implement for autotransplantation of wisdom teeth.

The Management of the Dilacerated Impacted Maxillary Central Incisor

The clinical problem of how best to manage a dilacerated, impacted maxillary central incisor will only be encountered rarely. The treatment aim should be to achieve results that are indistinguishable from normal appearance in a way that is appropriate for the patient. This article discusses the incidence of dilacerations in maxillary incisors and describes the treatment approaches available − orthodontic alignment or surgical removal and management of the resulting space, considering orthodontic repositioning, autotransplantation and various prosthetic replacements. Treatment indications, advantages and disadvantages, restorative and surgical implications, as well as the evidence-base relating to the various treatment modalities will be presented, along with clinical case examples. Clinical relevance: This paper discusses a problem that, if not managed appropriately, can lead to poor results for the patient. Even for practitioners who may not undertake the treatment mentioned, it will enable them to have more in-depth discussion with their patients should the situation arise.

Esthetic perception of maxillary lateral incisor agenesis treatment by canine mesialization

The objective of this study was to evaluate perception of the smile in maxillary lateral incisor agenesis (MLIA) cases treated by mesialization of a canine.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Nine images were digitally modified from the same frontal intraoral photograph to simulate various treatment options for space closure in MLIA. A questionnaire was submitted to laypersons (303), general dentists (215), prosthodontists (55) and orthodontists (81). Statistical tests with a significance level of P<0.05 were used.

RESULTS

The views of MLIA treatment judged to be most attractive showed unilateral dental and gingival reshaping. All study groups considered the simple dental reshaping of the mesial edge of the canine to be attractive. In the analysis of the images grouped together for both unilateral and bilateral MLIA, the view showing dental and gingival reshaping was considered the most attractive whereas unmodified mesialization was considered the least attractive.

CONCLUSION

Regarding the space closure treatments, although all groups regarded simple dental reshaping of the canine to be attractive, the dental professionals considered gingival and crown reshaping to be more esthetic. In contrast, laypersons were not significantly responsive to this dental and gingival modification as compared to only slight reshaping of the mesial edge of the cusp of the mesialized canine in MLIA.

Congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors: functional and periodontal aspects in patients treated with implants or space closure and tooth re-contouring

To evaluate functional and periodontal aspects in patients with unilateral or bilateral congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors, treated with either implants or space closure and tooth re-contouring. The sample consisted of 68 volunteers, divided into 3 groups: SCR - space closure and tooth re-contouring with composite resin (n = 26); SOI – implants placed in the area of agenesis (n = 20); and CG - control group (n = 22). A modified Helkimo questionnaire and the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders were used by a single, previously calibrated evaluator to assess signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder. The periodontal assessment involved the following aspects: plaque index, bleeding upon probing, pocket depth greater than 3 mm, gingival recession, abfraction, periodontal biotype and papilla index. The data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and the nonparametric Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests (α=.05). No differences in periodontal status were found between treatments. None of the groups were associated with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder. Both treatment alternatives for patients with congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors were satisfactory and achieved functional and periodontal results similar to those of the control group.

2 '2' 1: Orthodontic repositioning of lateral incisors into central incisors

The clinical problem of how best to manage an anterior space resulting from a missing central incisor will only be encountered rarely. The goal should be to deliver treatment results that are indistinguishable from normal appearance. This article describes one treatment approach - orthodontic space closure with substitution of the maxillary central incisor by the lateral incisor. Treatment indications, orthodontic and restorative considerations, advantages and disadvantages, as well as the evidence base relating to this treatment modality will be presented and supported by two clinical case examples.

Minor traumatic injuries to the permanent dentition

Treatment of traumatized teeth generally occurs in two phases: short-term emergency treatment and stabilization followed by endodontic management and review. These authors recently reviewed the endodontic considerations in the treatment of traumatized permanent anterior teeth, and in this article review the early management of traumatized permanent teeth. Preoperative assessment and emergency management are emphasized, as is the treatment of immature teeth for which continued development of the root system must be encouraged. Factors influencing long-term prognosis are discussed and the influence of various management strategies evaluated.