Avulsed human teeth replanted within 15 minutes--a long-term clinical follow-up study.

Twenty-one avulsed human permanent teeth replanted within 15 min after trauma were followed radiographically for an average of 5 years. Seven teeth did not show any root resorption during the observation period. In 8 teeth shallow resorption cavities were observed, but no signs of progression were observed with increased observation time. In 6 teeth some progressive root resorption was observed with increased observation time. The depth of root resorption cavities was assessed using a radiographic index, and the rate of root resorption was defined as the index change over time. The rate of root resorption was determined. It was concluded that teeth replanted within 15 min after the avulsion have a favourable long-term prognosis.