Tooth autotransplantation with adjunctive application of enamel matrix derivatives using a digital workflow: A prospective case series

Abstract

ObjectivesDigital protocols and bioactive materials may reduce complications and improve tooth autotransplantation (ATT) success and survival rates. This prospective study assesses the performance of a fully digital autotransplantation protocol of close-apex molars with the adjunctive application of Enamel Matrix Derivatives (EMD). MethodsTwelve adult patients with 13 hopeless molar teeth were replaced with autotransplantation of closed apex third molars. Outcomes, including success and survival rates, clinical, endodontic, radiographic, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and digital image assessments, were conducted over a two-year follow-up period. ResultsSurvival and success rates were 100% and 91.2%, respectively, with no progressive inflammatory or replacement root resorption (ankylosis) except for one tooth presenting radiographic furcation involvement. A significant probing depth reduction of 2.4 ± 2.58 mm and CAL gains of 2.8 ± 3.03 mm were observed in transplanted teeth compared to the hopeless receptor teeth. Radiographic bone levels remained stable throughout the study period (-0.37 ± 0.66 mm), and digital image assessments showed minimal alveolar ridge width changes (-0.32 to -0.7 mm) and gingival margin changes (-0.95 to -1.27 mm) from baseline to last visit. PROMs indicated very high patient satisfaction. ConclusionThe use of a digital ATT protocol with adjunctive use of EMD in closed-apex third molars demonstrated promising short-term high success and survival rates. Additionally, this type of therapy adequately preserves the dimensions of the alveolar ridge in the receptor site. Clinical significanceThis is the first prospective clinical study examining the effect of a digital tooth autotransplantation protocol combined with the application of EMD. It demonstrates that this approach is an effective treatment for replacing hopeless teeth and also validates the digital assessment of ATT alveolar ridge preservation at the recipient site.