Skip to main content
2025 AAPD Annual Meeting Main banner
Cheng Crowns
Information & Legend
This session is not in your schedule.
This session is in your schedule. Click again to remove it.
Presentation Icons
Ticket Required
Ticket Required
Sold Out
Sold Out
Recorded Session
Recorded Session
Rate ePoster

Patient Management

25 - A Tooth Autotransplantation Cost Model for Children with Missing Teeth

Friday, May 23, 2025
10:40 AM - 11:00 AM MDT
Has Audio

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Caitlin Miller, DMD

    Pediatric Dentistry Resident
    University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States

    • Research Mentor(s)

  • Jessica Y. Lee, DDS, MPH, PhD

    Chair, Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health; William W. Demeritt Distinguished Professor
    University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
    Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States

    • Program Director(s)

  • SC

    Scott W. Cashion, DDS, MS

    Associate Professor and Program Director
    University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
    Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States

Abstract:

Purpose: Tooth autotransplantation is a proven and effective treatment option for children with missing teeth. However, it's not often considered, partly due to the lack of knowledge about its practicality and costs. In this study, we sought to analyze and compare costs of tooth autotransplantation with the most common tooth replacement options currently being utilized in the pediatric population.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review and expert panel were used to establish treatment clinical pathways. Procedural costs (p) were calculated using current CDT codes, and their corresponding fees from FAIRHealth data. Time costs (t) were calculated using the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics hourly wage data and number of visits. Using the data gathered, a cost model was constructed, comparing each treatment option with their associated costs. 

Results: The cost model compared anterior maxillary tooth autotransplantation (TA) in patients 8-25 years of age, to the associated costs of single-tooth implants (IP), resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPD), and orthodontic space closure (OSC). IP without or with orthodontics was more costly (p: $9,186-$15,279), when compared to TA with limited or comprehensive orthodontics (p: $6,134-$10,355). RBFPD was the least costly alternative (p: $4,455; t: $437.38). OSC (p: $9,295; t: $2,186.88) was found to be more costly than TA with limited orthodontics but less costly than TA with comprehensive orthodontics. 

Conclusion: Tooth autotransplantation is a practical tooth replacement option for families, and one that should be considered by dental professionals when presented with a pediatric patient who needs tooth replacement in the maxillary anterior region.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by the UNC Pediatric Dentistry Research Funds and the ADA Health Policy Institute.