Eruption of premolars subsequent to autotransplantation. A longitudinal radiographic study.

One-hundred-and-eighteen premolars transplanted at a stage with 3/4 to 4/4 root development with an open apical foramen were followed using a standardized clinical and radiographic technique for signs of periodontal ligament healing, root development, and tooth eruption. Root growth was unimpeded in 26 per cent, impaired in 55 per cent, and arrested in 19 per cent. Eruption of transplants occurred at the time of periodontal and alveolar healing, and before any significant root growth. Furthermore, autotransplanted premolars created growth of the alveolar process along with the eruption process.