Autotransplantation of an unerupted wisdom tooth germ without its follicle immediately after removal of an impacted mandibular second molar: a case report.

ABSTRACT

An impacted left mandibular second molar (tooth 37) was extracted, but most of its dental follicle remained in the socket. The crown and dental papilla of an unerupted, left mandibular third molar (tooth 38) were then placed into the socket of tooth 37. Successful interaction between the dental follicle of tooth 37 and the crown and dental papilla of tooth 38 led to the formation of a new tooth 37 at the recipient site. This suggests that the dental follicle may function non-specifically with the crown and dental papilla of other tooth germs.