Treatment and prognosis of avulsed teeth. A discussion and case report.

A documented case that involves avulsion of an incisor is reported. Calcium hydroxide failed to prevent progressive irreversible root resorption. The importance of extraoral time, transport media, duration and type of splinting, as well as the rationale for the use of calcium hydroxide in the treatment of avulsed teeth are discussed. This case could serve as a reminder to practitioners, that patient compliance, timing and sequencing of endodontic therapy, and regular recalls is critical in the prevention or treatment of root resorption in avulsed teeth. It also emphasizes the frustration of many clinicians in treating avulsed immature teeth. The reporting of long-term documented cases should be encouraged so that replantation techniques may be evaluated.