Tooth Graft: An Umbrella Overview

Abstract

This umbrella review aims to evaluate systematic/meta-analysis studies containing clinical evidence on tooth grafts as bone substitutes in the oral and maxillofacial regions. Using language restrictions and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, an electronic database search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar was conducted, featuring published studies up until August 2022. All systematic/meta-analysis review articles relating to tooth graft materials were matched against the inclusion criteria. Two qualified researchers independently assessed the studies' inclusion or exclusion criteria and risk of bias, and a third investigator assisted in resolving ambiguities. A total of 81 systematic/meta-analysis studies, comprising 21 animal-controlled trials, 23 randomized controlled human trials, 23 prospective studies, and 14 retrospective studies, were selected for this study. A small risk of bias was observed in systematic studies/meta-analyses. In addition, the clinical evidence from the analysis of these studies revealed a low incidence of side effects. According to the current review, two systematic reviews indicated that autogenous bone grafting of prepared teeth might be as effective as other bone grafting materials. Four studies also mentioned autologous grafts as potential alternatives to autologous grafts, autogenous demineralized dentin (ADDM), engineered grafts, root blocks, and dental matrix. On the other hand, three systematic studies stated that more long-term research is needed to confirm their findings. Finally, given the importance of standardization and homogeneity of studies for clinical cases, it is advised to be used cautiously due to the risks of transplant rejection.