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Stabilization of autotransplanted teeth using thermoplastic retainers.
Muhammed Isa-Kara1, Fatih Sari, Mehmet Emre-Coşkun
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Gaziantep University Faculty of Dentistry, 27070, Gaziantep, Turkey. phismer@yahoo.com
Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal
|January 4, 2011
Summary
A removable thermoplastic retainer offers an 88.8% success rate for autotransplanted molar teeth, avoiding complications associated with rigid splints. This method is a viable alternative for improving outcomes in dental autotransplantation.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Autotransplantation of teeth is a common procedure.
- Rigid fixation can lead to complications like ankylosis and impaired revascularization.
- Alternative fixation methods are needed to improve success rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a removable thermoplastic retainer for stabilizing autotransplanted molar teeth.
- To compare the success rate of thermoplastic retainers with conventional rigid fixation methods.
- To assess patient satisfaction and complications associated with thermoplastic retainers.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study analyzed 45 autotransplanted teeth in 44 patients.
- Teeth were stabilized using a thermoplastic retainer for one month.
- Follow-up evaluations assessed success rate, primary stability, ankylosis, root resorption, and patient dissatisfaction over 31-47 months.
Main Results:
- An 88.8% success rate was observed, with 40 of 45 transplants remaining functional.
- Complications included 1 extraction due to inflammation and 2 due to external root resorption.
- Most patients (81.8%) reported little to no dissatisfaction with the retainer.
Conclusions:
- Thermoplastic retainers are a safe and effective alternative to rigid splints for autotransplanted molars.
- This technique is particularly beneficial for teeth with initial instability.
- The method offers a favorable success rate and patient acceptance, reducing risks of ankylosis and root resorption.

