Management of a Non-Restorable Maxillary Molar through Autotransplantation of a Third Molar With Extraoral Root-End Resection: A Case Report With a 24-Month Follow-Up

Abstract

Autotransplantation (AT) of a tooth with complete root development supplemented with extraoral root-end resection (EORER) is a surgical technique developed in the last few years. This promising technique extends the palette of AT indications and appears to be, among other things, a cheaper alternative to the more established AT procedure involving subsequent endodontic treatment of the transplanted tooth. However, the literature on this topic is still scarce, and more information about this technique is needed. In this case report, we present a case of an adult patient undergoing extraction of tooth #26 due to chronic periodontitis with low predictability of re-endodontic treatment outcome. As orthodontic resolution of the arising gap by major bodily movement of the tooth #27 was not recommended by the treating orthodontist, we opted for AT of a third molar with complete root development using the EORER technique due to the lack of space in the target location and the long roots of the donor tooth. The procedure was successful, with signs of revascularization obvious on follow-ups. So far, after 24 months, no issues with the autotransplanted tooth have been observed. This case report shows that even a third molar can be successfully used for AT, provided that the EORER technique with preoperative evaluation based on cone beam computed tomography is employed.