Effect of different splinting methods and fixation periods on root development of autotransplanted immature third molars

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of suture splinting for 1 week or rigid fixation for 4 weeks on final root length, root length increment, and mobility of autotransplanted immature third molars. The sample consisted of 63 patients with a total of 65 transplanted immature third molars. All transplants had reached one-half (n = 29) to three-fourths (n = 36) of their expected root length. In 24 of the transplants, postoperative fixation was carried out with a rigid acid-etch composite and wire splint for 4 weeks (rigid group), and in 41 transplants, with a suture splint for 1 week (suture group). The fixation method depended on the initial stability of the transplants. All transplants were followed up clinically and radiologically for a mean period of 3.9 years. Transplants in the rigid group revealed a significantly lower final root length ( P = .002) and root length increment ( P = .001) than those in the suture group. The differences were found to be more pronounced in transplants at earlier developmental stages. No differences were found in transplant mobility. The results of the present study indicate that prolonged rigid fixation of autotransplanted immature third molars has a significantly negative influence on final root length and root length increment, especially in transplants at earlier developmental stages.