Root fracture in patient in the pre-liver transplantation phase

ABSTRACT Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease patients, and offers them the possibility of returning to active and longer life. A dental evaluation before transplantation is a recommended prerequisite to avoid oral infections, which can worsen the patient’s overall situation. This case report refers to the root fracture of an anterior tooth in a patient who was undergoing dental treatment prior to liver transplantation. On clinical examination, the maxillary right central incisor (11) presented without color change, but with mobility in the buccolingual direction, slight flaring and extrusion, and fistula in the attached gingiva on the distal side of tooth 11. The patient reported that he had suffered a trauma in that region 30 years before. The radiographic examination showed a horizontal fracture of the middle third of the root, associated with bone damage, indicated by a radiolucent area at the distal surface of 11. The proposed treatment consisted of: scraping procedure and straightening of the distal surface, radical endodontic treatment of the coronal portion of the root, subsequent filling with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and dental immobilization. The clinical and radiographic follow-up at three-monthly intervals allowed us to observe gradual regression of the lesion with bone formation, contributing to maintenance of the patient’s general and emotional health, preserving his smile and quality of life.