Pre-replantation storage of avulsed teeth: fact and fiction.

Recent laboratory and clinical studies have proven that there is a rapid decrease in the regenerative potential of normal periodontal ligament the longer an avulsed tooth is out of the socket. These findings make some guidelines for the management of avulsed teeth inaccurate. This paper will review the effects of pre-replantation storage on periodontal ligament healing. In addition, current management recommendations are reviewed and suggestions for change presented.