[Online reader survey on autotransplantation: the findings]

A recent NTVT reader survey (n = 33) shows widespread recognition of the importance of early orthodontic referral in cases of eruption disorders (87.9%), even if not all deciduous teeth have yet been replaced (87.9%). Of the respondents, 36.4% indicate that they lack sufficient knowledge to determine the indications for autotransplantation. Autotransplantation in cases of eruption disorders is, in principle, part of a broader orthodontic treatment plan. Multidisciplinary collaboration is therefore emphasized by most respondents (90.9%). Many respondents consider autotransplantation for anterior tooth replacement to be superior to implantology (81.8%). It should be noted, however, that this choice depends on factors such as age, growth, the need for orthodontic treatment, and the patient s wishes in this regard. According to the respondents, autotransplantation of third molars in adults is not yet given sufficient consideration (81.8%), possibly because, in older patients, other forms of tooth replacement in the lateral regions are more readily chosen. These findings, summarized in an infographic, show that autotransplantation can be a valuable treatment option, provided it is part of a broader, patient-specific approach.