Intentional replantation of a mandibular molar: case report and 14-year follow-up

Abstract

This case report describes the nonsurgical endodontic treatment and intentional replantation of a mandibular molar and its nearly 14-year follow-up. A 56-year-old woman sought treatment with complaint of discomfort and sensitivity in the mandibular left area. The radiographic examination showed that the mandibular left first molar was endodontically treated, with over-instrumentation of the distal root and unsatisfactory obturation on the mesial root. A large periapical lesion was observed surrounding the roots. In view of the patient's limited interocclusal space and objection to undergo an apical surgery, intentional replantation was suggested as an alternative. The patient returned for clinical and radiographic follow-up at 15 days, 40 days, 6 months, 12 months, and once yearly thereafter. At the last visit, after 14 years, no painful symptomatology was reported, probing depth was no greater than 3 mm, the periradicular area had normal appearance and no evidence of root resorption or periapical lesion.