Successful immediate autotransplantation of tooth with incomplete root formation: case report

This case report presents successful immediate mandibular third molar autotransplantation to replace the nonrestorable mandibular first molar. In this case, after the extraction of the nonrestorable tooth, the donor molar with incomplete root formation was autotransplanted into the recipient site after the atraumatic extraction. A long-term follow-up of 2 years revealed that the tooth was fixed in its socket without residual inflammation, masticatory function was satisfactory and without discomfort; the tooth was not mobile, no pathologic condition was apparent radiographically, the lamina dura appeared normal and the tooth showed radiographic evidence of root growth, and pulpal regeneration and the depth of the pocket, gingival contour, and gingival color were all normal. The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate the clinical application of autotransplantation as a future option of permanent restoration without implants, orthodontic space closure, or partial denture.