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Replacement therapy utilising autotransplanted wisdom teeth
S W Guthua1, D L Mwaniki, D M Maina
1Department of Dental Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Kenya.
East African Medical Journal
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Autotransplantation of wisdom teeth offers a cost-effective solution for adolescents losing molars in developing nations. This dental procedure shows a high success rate, providing a viable alternative to expensive conventional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
Background:
- Adolescent molar loss due to dental caries is prevalent in developing countries.
- Conventional replacement methods like bridging and dentures are often prohibitively expensive.
- Unsalvageable 1st and 2nd molars require effective, accessible replacement strategies.
Observation:
- Embedded wisdom teeth in adolescents present a feasible source for autotransplantation.
- The University of Nairobi Dental School Clinic observes transplant 'take' in 4-8 weeks and functional position in 2.5-3.5 months.
Findings:
- Autotransplantation of wisdom teeth demonstrates a success rate exceeding 82% over ten years.
- This technique provides a viable alternative for replacing lost molars.
Implications:
- Training dental professionals in autotransplantation can increase its utilization.
- This method offers a straightforward, cost-effective approach to occlusal rehabilitation.
- Enhances the use of "useless" teeth for functional restoration.