Tooth transplantation
Autotransplantation is a modern method of replacing a missing tooth with the patient’s own healthy tooth. It is a biological solution that preserves bone tissue and provides long-term results. The procedure is especially suitable for young patients who need replacement of a missing tooth.
Text reviewed by specialist:
Oral, maxillofacial, and jaw surgeon, Prosthodontist
Published
Text updated
When to see a specialist
- Missing tooth: especially in the front teeth area, where aesthetics are important.
- Damaged tooth: that can no longer be treated and needs to be removed.
- Need for tooth replacement: avoiding implants or bridges.
- Prevention of jawbone loss: maintaining natural bone stimulation.
- Aesthetic concerns: smile defects caused by a missing tooth.
- Restoration of chewing function: ensuring natural and effective chewing ability.
- Support for orthodontic treatment: creating space or replacing teeth.
Common symptoms
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Aesthetic considerations
If a missing tooth affects the appearance of your smile and you would like to restore it aesthetically. -
Chewing difficulties
If a missing tooth causes difficulty chewing or affects chewing function. -
Concern about jawbone loss
If you are concerned about jawbone loss after tooth extraction. -
Desire to avoid dental implants or bridges
If you wish to avoid dental implants or bridges due to health reasons or personal preference. -
Desire to replace a missing tooth with a natural solution
If you want to replace a missing tooth with a natural solution while avoiding artificial materials. -
Difficulties with chewing, speaking or opening the mouth
If you have trouble chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth due to jaw disorders, alignment issues, or other jaw conditions. -
Missing tooth and need for restoration
If a missing tooth is located in a visible area, affects your smile or causes functional problems and you want to replace it. -
Severely damaged tooth requiring extraction
If a tooth is extensively damaged and needs to be removed, but you want a natural replacement.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Bring with you: ID card or other identification document.
- Write down: your main questions and expectations regarding the autotransplantation.
- Information about: previous dental procedures, medications used, and your general health is helpful.
What to expect during your appointment
Consultation and diagnostics
We discuss your needs and assess the condition of the oral cavity using X-rays and 3D scanning.
Treatment planning
An individual treatment plan is created, including selection of a suitable donor tooth and the stages of the procedure.
Donor tooth extraction and transplantation
A healthy donor tooth is extracted and transplanted into the prepared recipient site.
Tooth fixation and stabilisation
The transplanted tooth is temporarily stabilised to ensure proper integration with the bone.
Follow-up visits and monitoring of tooth vitality
Regular check-ups are carried out to monitor healing and tooth vitality.
Root canal treatment if needed
Endodontic treatment is performed on the transplanted tooth if necessary.
Final restoration of the tooth
The tooth is permanently restored with a filling or crown.
Payment & Appointment Info
Prices
Tallinn
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 20 € |
| Tooth transplantation | 749 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
Tartu, Kuressaare
This service is not available in selected area
This service is only available in Tallinn and Pärnu, Kärdla. You need to select Tallinn and Pärnu, Kärdla to see a price for this service.
Pärnu, Kärdla
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 13 € |
| Tooth transplantation | 700 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
Payment methods
This service is not covered by Meliva Health Insurance. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
Referral
You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is autotransplantation?
Autotransplantation is a procedure in which a missing tooth is replaced with the patient’s own healthy tooth, which is transplanted to another location in the mouth.
Who is autotransplantation suitable for?
It is suitable for patients who have a missing tooth and a suitable donor tooth, such as a wisdom tooth or a supernumerary tooth.
In which cases can autotransplantation be performed?
Studies show that 70–90% of all dental trauma occurs before the age of 19, with a peak between ages 8–12. If a tooth space is left untreated after trauma, bone and surrounding tissues gradually resorb over time, and in adulthood implant placement often requires additional procedures and costs.
A suitable tooth is selected through multidisciplinary collaboration. The patient’s age, jaw development, and root maturity are taken into account. If necessary, space is created or reduced through orthodontic treatment. Autotransplantation is suitable for children aged 10–15, and in the case of wisdom teeth, for young people aged 16–18.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, making it painless. Mild pain and swelling may occur after surgery.
How long does autotransplantation take?
The procedure itself usually takes 1–2 hours, but the overall treatment period, including healing and follow-ups, is longer.
What happens after the procedure?
During transplantation, the tooth’s blood supply is interrupted. Its restoration in the new position depends on factors such as root development stage, periodontal condition, root anatomy, tooth position in the jaw, and other variables. The procedure involves risks that must be monitored and evaluated with X-rays.
Complications are more common with impacted canines due to their difficult position and fully developed roots. Root development stage is always assessed, as an open apex may allow revascularisation through the root tip.
Follow-up visits are required monthly at first, and later every 6–9 months to prevent complications.
What are the benefits of autotransplantation?
Key benefits include a natural result, preservation of bone tissue, avoidance of implants, and long-term prognosis.
Does the transplanted tooth function like a normal tooth?
Yes, if the transplantation is successful, the tooth integrates into the jawbone and functions like a natural tooth, restoring chewing ability.
Is root canal treatment needed for the transplanted tooth?
In most cases, root canal treatment is required because the tooth’s nerve is damaged during transplantation.
What is a donor tooth?
A donor tooth is the patient’s own tooth that is removed from one location and transplanted to another in the mouth.
Is autotransplantation expensive?
The cost depends on the complexity of the procedure and required follow-up treatments. A more precise estimate is provided during consultation.
Is autotransplantation always possible?
No, it is not always possible. A successful procedure requires a suitable donor tooth, sufficient bone volume, and good overall health.