Autotransplantation of a mature third molar into a graft-free maxillary sinus: A 9-year follow-up case report

Won, Chiyun

doi:2026.64.8.293

J Korean Dent Assoc > Volume 64(8); 2026 > Article

Case Report

Journal of Korean Dental Association 2026;64(8):293-299.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22974/jkda.2026.64.8.004 Published online August 31, 2026.

Autotransplantation of a mature third molar into a graft-free maxillary sinus: A 9-year follow-up case report

Chiyun Won

Chiyun Won Dental Clinic, Seoul, Korea

Correspondence: Chiyun Won, Tel: +82-2-336-7522,
Email: wonchiyun@gmail.com

Received: 23 April 2026 • Revised: 7 July 2026 • Accepted: 24 July 2026

Abstract

This report describes periodontal ligament (PDL)–preserving autotransplantation combined with graft-free crestal sinus membrane elevation in a posterior maxillary site with limited residual bone height. A 28-year-old woman with a non-restorable maxillary first molar and approximately 3 mm of residual crestal bone height underwent autotransplantation of a mature third molar with simultaneous graft-free sinus membrane elevation. Approximately nine years of follow-up demonstrated stable function with preservation of the PDL space, no ankylosis or pathologic root resorption, and progressive bone formation within the sinus-associated void. PDL-preserving autotransplantation with graft-free sinus membrane elevation may represent a viable biologically based alternative in selected posterior maxillary cases.

Key Words: Transplantation, Autologous; Periodontal Ligament; Maxillary Sinus; Sinus Floor Augmentation; Bone Regeneration