Application of 3D printed tooth replicas for autotransplantation of developing premolars: a case report

Introduction
Tooth autotransplanation can be applied to treat congenital agenesis of premolars. Complications are directly related to iatrogenic injury to the root surface of a transplanted tooth during surgery.

Aim
The aim of the article was to present the application of 3D printed tooth replicas for autotransplantation of developing premolars and to review the relevant literature.

Case report
Autotransplantation of unerupted maxillary second premolars using 3D replicas was scheduled in an 11-year-old patient with congenital agenesis of mandibular second premolars based on the CBCT examination. Orthodontic indications for tooth transplantation comprised maxillary crowding and distal relations in posterior segments. No complications occurred during the surgery. One year after transplantation normal healing of the transplanted teeth was observed which included pulp obliteration, normal eruption into occlusion, continuous root development and healthy soft and hard periodontal tissues.

Conclusions
Application of printed 3D replicas of transplanted teeth facilitates surgical preparation of the recipient site, shortens the extra-alveolar time, and reduces to the minimum the number of attempts of the donor tooth insertion at the prepared socket. Their use can significantly decrease the risk of damage to the root surface of a transplant, thus increasing the chance of success. 3D replicas can be very useful for operators with a limited clinical experience in autotransplantation surgery.