ABSTRACT
AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the success rate of 33 transplanted teeth in a northern population of Portugal. METHODS: The mean follow-up period was 7 years, ranging from 6 months to 20 years. RESULTS: Six teeth (18%) were rated as unsuccessful, 52% of the donor teeth were transplanted to receptor alveolus after immediate exodontia and 24% were transplanted to receptor alveolus surgically prepared. From the total number of cases, 64% had open root apex at the time of the transplantation and, in the latest control, of all teeth root development was over in 55%. Teeth ankylosis was present in 38% of all cases and 58% of all 33 transplants presented pulpar vitality. Data shows that, in males, teeth transplanted into natural alveolus were non-ankylosed, with normal color and vital teeth with incomplete root development at the time of the surgery. All cumulative curves obtained showed no statistical significance, mainly due to the low number of unsuccessful teeth autotransplantations. Orthodontic treatment performed after tooth autotransplantation showed success in 15% of all cases. CONCLUSION: Data reconfirms that autotransplantation of teeth is, in selected patients, the best option to replace a missing tooth in young patients.