Autotransplantation of ectopically positioned canine: a 5 year follow-up study

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the esthetics and outcome of the ectopically positioned canines treated with autotransplantation and orthodontics. Methods Ten ectopic canines in 9 consecutive patients (4 female, 5 male; mean age 19. 8 years, range 13～37 years) were included.Eight of them were deeply impacted and two canines were ectopically erupted (7 maxillary and 3 mandibular canines). The space of recipient site was created orthodontically before surgery. The recipient socket was prepared with dental implant surgery system. After transplantation, bone defect was grafted with guided bone regeneration (GBR) technique. Postoperative orthodontic treatment was carried out. Patients were followed up every 6 months. The pink esthetic score was evaluated.Periodontal pocket depth was measured. Pulpal vitality was assessed. Periapical radiograph was taken to evaluate root resorption, periodontal space and lamina dura. Results The average follow-up period was 5. 1 years (range 2～9 years). The pink esthetic score was 13. 33±0. 87. All pocket depth was less than 3 mm. Radiographic examination showed uninterrupted periodontal space and lamina dura in 7 cases, unclear periodontal space in 2 cases and replacement resorption in 1 case. Conclusions Autotransplantation of the ectopically positioned canines with the combination of dental implant surgical techniques and orthodontics could be suggested as an esthetic and predictable treatment modality. Key words: Transplantation; Cuspid; Tooth impacted; Esthetics