Case Report: Multidisciplinary management with dental autotransplantation for rehabilitation of a post-traumatic edentulous maxillary hemi-segment in a growing patient: transverse maxillary development after 10 years

Abstract

IntroductionDental autotransplantation has re-emerged as a valuable biological option for tooth replacement in growing patients, mainly due to its ability to preserve the periodontal ligament and maintain alveolar bone. Nevertheless, its potential influence on transverse maxillary development over the long term remains insufficiently explored. The aim of this report was to present a 10-year follow-up of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation, with particular attention to transverse maxillary growth.Case reportA growing patient who suffered severe dentoalveolar trauma, with loss of all teeth in the upper right quadrant, was treated through a staged multidisciplinary approach. Two unerupted mandibular premolars were autotransplanted to the maxilla, followed by orthodontic alignment and, once growth was completed, implant-supported rehabilitation. Throughout the follow-up period, the transplanted teeth remained functional and vital. One implant developed marginal bone loss after seven years and was successfully replaced after regenerative therapy. At 10 years, both implants and autotransplanted teeth were clinically stable, with CBCT confirming preservation of the regenerated alveolar ridge.ResultsTransverse measurements of the maxilla showed similar dimensions between the treated and contralateral sides at both canine and molar levels. These findings suggest that transverse development of the affected hemi-maxilla was not compromised.ConclusionWithin the limitations of a single case, this report supports the concept that dental autotransplantation may play a role beyond tooth replacement, potentially contributing to the maintenance of transverse maxillary growth during development. This reinforces its value as a biologically driven strategy in complex cases involving growing patients.