Prevalence of Post-Operative Complications in Autotransplanted Teeth: A Long-Term Retrospective Cohort

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Tooth autotransplantation is a viable option for replacing missing teeth.
• Post-operative complications can impact the long-term outcomes of this procedure.
• Understanding the timing and factors influencing these complications is essential for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and timing of post-operative complications after tooth autotransplantation.
• To identify factors associated with the early diagnosis of these complications.
• To report on the long-term survival and success rates of autotransplanted teeth.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 134 autotransplanted teeth in 111 patients over 20 years.
• Teeth categorized as premolars, molars, and anterior teeth; root development classified.
• Survival and success rates analyzed using Kaplan-Meier; complication timing and risk factors assessed with Cox regression.

Main Results:

• Half of complications diagnosed within 18 months, with inflammatory resorption earliest (11.7 months).
• Five-year survival rates: premolars (95.4%), molars (86.6%), anterior teeth (75.8%).
• Factors like age ≥30, male gender, and anterior teeth were linked to earlier complications; antibiotics showed a protective effect against infection.

Conclusions:

• Most complications can be managed effectively with early detection.
• The first 18 months post-transplantation represent a critical window for complication development.
• Intensified follow-up schedules are recommended, alongside continued long-term monitoring for late complications.