Researchers at Danube Private University (DPU) report two unusual cases of internal resorption affecting third molars, including a transplanted wisdom tooth in which the complication occurred 19 years after successful transplantation.
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Two unusual cases
The publication was produced as part of the MKG Study Club under the leadership of Univ.-Prof. Dr. Dritan Turhani and was published in the International Journal of Surgery Case Reports.
The case report, “Vulnerability of third molars to internal resorption: Two Case Reports of In Situ and Transplanted Third Molars,” was authored by OA Ass.-Prof. Dr. med. dent. Florian Pfaffeneder-Mantai, MA MSc, OA Ass.-Prof. Dr. med. dent. Pascal Grün, ZT, Lucas Jehle, Flora Turhani and Ass.-Prof. Dr. med. dent. Marius Meier, PhD MSc.
Internal resorption without symptoms
In the first case, internal resorption was detected in three third molars during a routine examination of an asymptomatic young patient. As no classic triggers could be identified and progressive loss of tooth structure was observed, removal of the affected teeth was recommended.
The second case involved an autologously transplanted third molar. Although the tooth remained stable and functional for many years after successful transplantation, internal resorption developed 19 years later. Due to advanced loss of tooth structure, the tooth ultimately had to be removed.
Importance of long-term follow-up
The authors highlight that third molars may be particularly susceptible to internal resorption. At the same time, the transplanted tooth demonstrates that late complications can occur even after many symptom-free years.
The cases therefore underline the importance of regular clinical and radiological follow-up, particularly following successful tooth transplantation.
