Case report: autotransplantation for a missing permanent maxillary incisor

Patients with nonrestorable or missing anterior teeth are typically seen by their general or pediatric dentist who directs the course of consultation, referral, and treatment. In the mixed dentition stage, loss of permanent maxillary incisors is usually treated by various forms of removable/fixed prosthetic appliances. Because premolars are developing during this time period, transplantation of an available premolar to an incisor position is a viable alternative, that may provide a better biological substitute for a missing incisor than other choices. The purpose of this case report was to describe the treatment of the loss of a permanent maxillary central incisor by transplantation of a maxillary first premolar to the incisor position. Autotransplantation allowed normal alveolar bone development and a future option of permanent restoration without implants or partial dentures. Autotransplantation should be given consideration as a reasonable option for the treatment of missing incisors in mixed dentition.