A Clinical Study on Replantation of Avulsed Permanent Teeth

ABSTRACT

A material of 48 patients with 60 avulsed and replanted permanent teeth were followed retrospectively in the period of 1996. 1 to 1998. 12 (mean observation period=1year 7months). The age of the patients at the time of replantation ranged from 9 to 63 years (mean=24 years). Clinical records of patients were reviewed to obtain valid data concerning the extent of injury and treatment provided. Pulpal and periodontal healing states were examined with periapical x-rays and clinical examination procedures (i.e. percussion test and mobility test) at their recall visit. Root ankylosis was found in fifty-two teeth (87%) and root resorption in twenty-four (40%). Only two of the replanted teeth (3%) showed partial regeneration of the periodontal ligament. Six teeth (10%) resulted in tooth loss, but the remaining fifty-four were clinically well functioning. Most of teeth have mild marginal bone loss accompanied by gingival retraction without pathological periodontal pockets. The incidence of root resorption was much higher in younger age group. However, it was not affected by the interval between avulsion and replantation, the condition of supporting tissues, the degree of root formation and the type of splinting, indicating that multiple factors involved in determining the prognosis of replanted teeth. Based on these findings, avulsed teeth in unfavorable conditions (i.e. long extra-alveolar periods, etc.) should be preserved if possible.