Autotransplantation of Impacted Maxillary Canines: A Conservative Surgical-Orthodontic Strategy – A Case Report

Abstract

The inclusion of maxillary canines is a common anomaly. Its management is multidisciplinary and requires surgical and orthodontic expertise, as well as a reasonable and well-thought-out treatment plan. The aim of this work is to report the management of an impacted canine within the Department of Surgical Dentistry at the Consultation and Dental Treatment Center of Casablanca, Morocco. Case presentation This report describes the surgical and orthodontic management of a 17-year-old Moroccan female patient presenting with an impaction and complete transposition of tooth 23, associated with tooth 21. Several treatment options were considered, among which autotransplantation of tooth 23 was deemed the most appropriate, with the goal of improving facial aesthetics and restoring functional occlusion. Discussion Ortho-surgical repositioning of the impacted tooth is the most commonly desired and adopted therapeutic approach; however, other options such as autotransplantation can be salvaging solutions in certain clinical scenarios. Given the complexity of the case and the socio-economic context, autotransplantation was the most efficient solution for our patient to restore aesthetics and establish functional occlusion. Conclusion A proper assessment of all aspects of the anomaly at the beginning of treatment provides valuable guidance for decision-making among the various therapeutic options. Autotransplantation techniques aim to preserve as much bone volume as possible in order to allow for optimal implant placement if needed in the future.