Delayed replantation of avulsed tooth with 15-hours extra-oral time: 3-year follow-up

Background

Avulsion is one of the most serious injuries of the tooth which is most commonly seen in young children and occurs in the upper front teeth. Immediate transplantation of the avulsed tooth is recommended treatment and results in good prognosis although this may not be always possible.

Case report

The present case highlights the 3-year follow-up of delayed replantation (after 15 h) of maxillary central incisor which was avulsed due to trauma. The complications seen in the present case were ankylosis and inflammatory resorption, but clinically the tooth was asymptomatic and maintains the esthetics of the individual signifying the importance of delayed replantation even after prolonged extra-oral time.

Clinical implications and conclusion

Although complications like ankylosis or root resorption may be unavoidable, delayed replantation of avulsed tooth may be a good alternative to prosthesis (implant or fixed partial denture) till the growth is completed due to preservation of the alveolar bone and psychological benefit to the patient. Also efforts should be made to educate and update children, teachers and parents regarding management of avulsed tooth at accident site and also the dentists regarding its management in dental office.