Effect of 3D printed replicas on the duration of third molar autotransplantation surgery: A controlled clinical trial

Background/Aim This study aimed to develop a protocol that combines cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT), software, and 3D printing to design 3D replicas for tooth autotransplantation. The goal was to evaluate the impact of this approach on the extraoral time of the donor teeth and the total surgical time, thereby enhancing surgical efficiency and outcomes. Materials and Methods A non‐randomized trial (protocol 10.1186/ISRCTN13563091) was conducted at Riga Stradins University, enrolling 46 patients (13–22 years old) who required molar extraction and possessed a non‐erupted third molar. The patients were sequentially assigned to a 3D replica group (24 patients) or a control group (22 patients). The primary outcome measured was the extra‐alveolar time of the donor tooth, and the secondary outcome was the total duration of surgery. Both were assessed using a sample size capable of detecting a 10‐min difference. A generalized linear model adjusted for various factors was used to test for significant time differences (p