The effect of saline storage before replantation upon dry damage of the periodontal ligament

Abstract The effect of 30 min of saline storage before replantation of teeth, which had been dried out for 30 min, was studied in 10 Green Vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops). Maxillary central incisors were extracted and dried out for 30 min, after which 1 incisor was replanted and the other transferred to a saline solution for 30 min before replantation. No splinting or endodontic treatment was carried out. The teeth were examined after 8 wk. Histometric analysis showed identical extent of root resorption in the 2 groups, with ankylosis being the dominant resorption type, and with very limited pulpal repair in either group. It is concluded that saline storage under the experimental conditions chosen had no effect on development of root resorption or pulpal repair, presumably because 30 min dry storage had inflicted close to maximal damage on the periodontal ligament at the root surface. On the other hand, it is of clinical importance that a certain delay in the replantation procedure does not influence periodontal and pulpal healing, as long as the tooth is kept in saline storage. This suggests that replantation under these conditions can be reserved for dental professionals, rather than favoring immediate replantation by anyone ‘on-the-spot’.