Intentional Replantation for Periodontally Involved Hopeless Teeth

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of intentional replantation of periodontally involved teeth after conditioning of root surfaces with tetracycline-HCl. Thirteen patients (seven female, six male; age range: 35-52 years) with 15 periodontally involved hopeless teeth were included in this study. During the replantation procedure, the affected teeth were gently extracted, then the granulation tissues, calculus, remaining periodontal ligament and necrotic cementum on the root surfaces were removed. Tetracycline-HCl, at a concentration of 100 mg ml(-1), was applied for 5 min to the root surfaces. The teeth were then replaced into the socket and splinted. Patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated at baseline (time of surgery) and 6 months after the surgery. The following measurements were recorded: probing depth (PD), gingival recession (R), the amount of bone loss (BL) and bone gain (BG). Results indicated a reduction in PD and in the amount of bone loss and healthy gingiva. Mean PD was decreased from 5.25 to 2.36 mm, gingival recession was increased from 3.73 to 4.0 mm, and BL was reduced from 73.20 to 56.86%. At the end of 6 months, no root resorption or ankylosis was observed radiographically. Even during the short period of evaluation, it may be suggested that intentional replantation can be an alternative approach to extraction in cases where advanced periodontal destruction is present and no other treatments could be considered.