Description

The intervention in this study is intentional replantation (IR) of periodontally compromised single-rooted teeth deemed hopeless. Patients are chosen according to specific criteria, ensuring that the teeth are amenable to restoration and devoid of vertical root fractures. Preoperative preparation entails radiographic evaluation via periapical or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), scaling and root planing, and antibiotic prophylaxis when warranted. The process commences with a non-traumatic extraction utilising periotome to maintain the integrity of the periodontal ligament (PDL). After extraction, the tooth is handled extraorally within 15 minutes to preserve periodontal ligament viability. It is preserved in a sterile medium, such as saline or blood, and granulation tissue is meticulously excised. Optional root modifications, such as apical resection, retrograde filling with mineral trioxide aggregate or biodentine, or surface treatment with tetracycline or enamel matrix derivatives like Emdogain, may be conducted if required. The tooth is subsequently replanted into its original socket and secured with a non-rigid splint (fiber-reinforced composite or orthodontic wire) for a duration of 2 to 4 weeks. Occlusal adjustment is conducted to reduce excessive functional forces. Postoperative care comprises analgesics, antibiotics as necessary, and a 0.12% chlorhexidine rinse administered bi-daily for a duration of two weeks. Patients are instructed to adhere to a soft diet for two weeks to avert trauma to the replanted tooth. Follow-up evaluations are planned at 1 week, 4 weeks, 9 months to evaluate healing, bone regeneration, periodontal reattachment, and overall tooth viability. The principal outcome measures encompass tooth survival, periodontal healing, and bone regeneration, whereas secondary outcomes evaluate patient-reported pain, functionality, and quality of life.

In this study, the comparator is the tooth's pre-treatment condition, which serves as the baseline for comparison. Given that the study used a pre-test, post-test interventional design, each tooth serves as its own control. Baseline examinations, encompassing clinical indicators (mobility, probing depth, gingival inflammation) and radiographic evaluation (bone level, periodontal ligament space, root resorption), are documented prior to intentional replantation. Subsequent to the intervention, these measures are reassessed at 9-month follow-up to evaluate treatment outcomes and alterations in alveolar bone. This comparison facilitates an impartial assessment of the efficacy of purposeful replantation in enhancing periodontal health and bone regeneration.