Stress analysis of mandibular two-implant overdenture with different attachment systems

Assessment of Retention of Implant Bearing Mandibular Overdentures with Various Attachments: A Three-Year Follow-Up

Mandibular dentures are considered dubious in terms of retention in resorbed ridges. Implant bearing overdentures can be a solution to the abovesaid issue. Various attachments in use offer variations in retention and maintenance. The aim was to assess long term durability and retention of implant supported overdenture attachments. Two implant bearing overdentures were placed in 20 patients. Magnet and ball attachment were used and dentures were evaluated over a period of three years at different time intervals. Difference of attachments' performance between intervals was assessed with ANOVA test and Tukey HSD post hoc test and the level of significance was set at p<0.05. There was a decline in retention throughout research period in both categories; the ball and socket batch showed statistically significant (P<0.05) better retention force compared to that of magnet group. There was lesser decline in mean retention force of 10.97N±0.82 to 7.24N±0.903 from one month to three years in magnet attachment retained overdentures. Ball attachments offer better retentive forces than magnet category. Magnet bearing overdentures offer more durability in terms of retention.

Evaluation of masticatory performance and patient satisfaction for conventional and 3D-printed implant overdentures: a randomized crossover study

BACKGROUND

This crossover clinical study aimed to evaluate and compare masticatory performance and patient satisfaction for patients rehabilitated with conventional heat-cured acrylic resin and 3D-printed mandibular implant overdentures retained with bar attachment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen completely edentulous healthy participants received new conventional dentures. In the mandible, four interforaminal implants were inserted. Following the stage of osseointegration, the bar was constructed in a trapezoidal configuration. Each patient randomly received the following overdentures using a crossover design: (1) conventional heat-cured acrylic resin overdenture and (2) 3D-printed overdenture (developed by scanning of mandibular conventional overdenture). The masticatory performance was assessed by conducting a two-colour mixing ability test at 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50 masticatory cycles. Moreover, the McGill Denture Satisfaction Questionnaire (MDSQ) was employed to assess patient satisfaction. Evaluation was performed after 3 months of using each overdenture. Paired sample t tests were used to compare the masticatory performance and MDSQ scores of patients for both prostheses.

RESULTS

No significant difference in masticatory performance was reported between the two types of overdentures. Regarding patient satisfaction, only the esthetic aspect was significantly better for conventionally processed overdentures than for printed overdentures. Insignificant differences were observed regarding other MDSQ items between the two overdentures.

CONCLUSION

Within this clinical study, 3D-printed implant overdentures showed promising results in terms of chewing efficiency and patient satisfaction compared to conventionally fabricated implant overdentures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered at www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov : NCT06148727.(28/11/2023).

A comparative study to evaluate microstrain of low-profile attachment associated with and without bar connection in implant assisted mandibular overdenture (in vitro study)

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the microstrain transmitted to peri-implant tissues of implant-assisted mandibular overdentures using two different low-profile attachment designs; OT- Equator attachment with and without bar attachment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A completely edentulous epoxy resin mandibular model was used, in which two parallel dental implants were inserted at the canine region bilaterally and one in the middle. Sixteen identical complete edentulous mandibular overdentures were fabricated following conventional, standardized techniques and were divided equally between two groups according to the design and placement of the OT-Equator. Group A implants were kept solitary with an OT-Equator attachment, while group B implants were kept splinted with a bar associated with two mini-OT-Equator attachments in between. Sixteen identical mandibular complete overdentures were constructed, to which attachments were picked up. The difference in stress distribution was measured using strain gauges and compared between the two studied groups. A vertical load of 100 N using the universal testing machine was applied unilaterally on the left mesial fossae of the mandibular first molar and bilaterally on the bar attached to the mandibular premolar molar region of the overdentures. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 28. Normality was checked by using the Shapiro-Wilk test and normality plots. The Mann-Whitney U test was then used to analogize the groups.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference between groups A and B upon application of vertical unilateral and bilateral loadings of 100 N, with mean microstrain values of P 0.05. Group A (OT-Equator attachment) showed lower strain values than Group B (OT-Equator bar attachment) upon application of vertical, unilateral, and bilateral loadings of 100 N.

CONCLUSIONS

Implant-assisted mandibular overdenture with a solitary attachment is associated with lower microstrain values around the implants after application of unilateral and bilateral vertical loadings of 100 N.

Radiographic Assessment of Three-implant-retained Mandibular Overdentures: A Clinical Study of Alveolar Bone Height Changes (Randomized Clinical Trial)

AIM

To evaluate the residual alveolar ridge bone height changes regarding the impact of the block-out spacer used during the pick-up procedures of implant-assisted mandibular complete overdentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a randomized clinical trial conducted on 18 patients. All patients received three mandibular dental implants with definitive locator attachments which were directly picked up with two different techniques. Patients were classified randomly without any bias into two equal groups (Group I block-out spacer) and (Group II without block-out spacer). Over a year, the digital radiographic technique with new technique of reference points was employed to evaluate the changes in the residual alveolar ridge bone heights. The data were statistically analyzed to test the significance difference between groups.

RESULTS

Concerning the residual alveolar ridge resorption RRR, group I exhibited a significantly higher RRR than group II.

CONCLUSION

In terms of residual alveolar ridge preservation, not using the block-out spacer was more beneficial than using it.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Alveolar bone heights can be affected by the use of block-out spacer during pick-up procedure within accepted physiologic values. The removal of the block-out spacer could be more beneficial with respect to the preservation of the residual alveolar ridge. How to cite this article: Mohammed REL, Askar OM, El-Waseef FAE, et al. Radiographic Assessment of Three-implant-retained Mandibular Overdentures: A Clinical Study of Alveolar Bone Height Changes (Randomized Clinical Trial). J Contemp Dent Pract 2023;24(11):847-852.

A modal analysis of implant-supported overdentures installed on differently positioned sets of dental implants

This study evaluated the three vibration characteristics, namely, natural frequency, damping ratio, and natural mode, together with maximum displacement of a two-implant-supported overdenture (IOD) at different locator attachment positions using experimental modal analysis (EMA). Edentulous mandibular models with a gingival thickness of 1 mm or 3 mm were prepared, into which dental implants were placed using a fully guided surgical template designed with simulation software, the locator abutments were fastened, and the IODs were then fabricated. The implant positions were bilaterally marked at the lateral incisor, first premolar, and first molar regions. EMA was performed by hammering the test structures to measure the impulse response and obtain the vibration characteristics (n = 5). The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed for natural frequency and maximum displacement, and the Games-Howell test for damping ratio. The significance level was set at α = 0.05. The study indicated that the gingival thickness had a significant effect on the vibration characteristics. Moreover, the natural frequency and damping ratio results showed that the vibration subsided faster when the attachment was placed on the molar implants in the thick gingival model. Furthermore, according to the effect of lateral force on IODs, the difference in maximum displacement between the anterior and posterior regions of the IOD was smaller when the attachments were designed on the pair of lateral incisors. Thus, within the limits of this experiment, our results suggested that two anterior implant-supported IODs are preferable treatment designs in terms of vibration engineering, especially when the gingiva is thick; the molar attachment design could be considered for thin gingival conditions. The differences in gingival thickness and abutment position affected the vibration characteristics of the IOD. Further in vivo studies would be necessary to validate the implant positions and their IOD designs for the mandibular edentulous shapes and the occlusal relationship.

In vitro study of the effect of implant position and attachment type on stress distribution of implant-assisted removable partial dentures

Background/purpose

Implant assisted removable partial dentures (IARPDs) improved biomechanical behavior of removable partial dentures (RPDs), but information of the effect of attachment type and implant position is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effect of implant position and attachment type on the stress distribution of IARPDs.

Material and methods

Four implants, 10 mm in length and 4.1 mm in diameter, were bilaterally placed close to first premolar and second molar regions of a mandibular Kennedy class I model having artificial dentition from canine to canine, vertical to the occlusal plane. Five IARPDs were fabricated to accommodate locator and magnetic attachments. Strain gauges were placed on the model surface to measure the strain around implants during loading. Unilateral vertical loading was applied to the right first molar area with magnitude of 120 N and crosshead speed of 10 mm/min. Measurements were recorded under following conditions: premolar IARPDs with locator or magnetic attachments, molar IARPDs with locator or magnetic attachments. Two-way multiple analysis of variance was performed to compare the maximum principal strain (MPS) around the implants with a significance level of 0.05.

Results

Implant position had significant effect on the MPS of IARPD on loading and nonloading sides while attachment type only significant on nonloading side. Molar implants showed larger MPS than premolar implants with both locator and magnetic attachments during unilateral loading.

Conclusion

The stress distribution of the IARPD is significantly affected by implant position wherein anteriorly placed implants exhibit lower MPS than relatively posteriorly placed implants.

A 5-Year Retrospective Study Evaluating Periodontal Health and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life of Implant-Supported Overdentures With Locator and Magnetic Attachments

This study compared peri-implant vertical bone loss, the periodontal index, prosthodontic maintenance requirements and oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) of patients using mandibular implant-supported overdentures with 2 different attachment systems after an average of 5 years of use. Sixteen mandibular overdenture patients with magnet attachments (group 3), 24 with implant-supported mandibular overdentures with Locator attachments (group 2), and 25 conventional complete denture patients (group 1) were included in the study. The existing at least 5 years old dentures of all patients were evaluated for prosthodontic maintenance by the same prosthodontist and the patients were administered the oral health impact profile-14-Turkish version (OHIP-TR-14) questionnaire. Peri-implant tissue health was evaluated clinically in terms of plaque scores, bleeding scores, probing depth, and gingival index. Radiographic evaluation was performed in terms of peri-implant vertical bone loss. Radiographic evaluations were performed 5 years after overdenture insertion. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of total OHIP-TR-14 scores (P > .05). Although the average vertical bone resorption measured in group 2 at the end of 5 years was 1.38 mm, there was an average vertical bone loss of 1.45 mm in group 3, but this difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Among the periodontal health indicators, there were no statistically significant differences in the mean values for periodontal indexes. According to results of the study, there were no differences in peri-implant vertical bone loss in groups 2 and 3, in periodontal health in mandibular overdentures with groups 2 and 3, or between total OHIP-TR-14 scores of patients in all groups.

A Comparison of Biomechanical Properties of Implant-Retained Overdenture Based on Precision Attachment Type

This paper aims to compare, in vitro, the biomechanical properties of an overdenture retained by two bar-retained implants and an overdenture retained by two bar-retained implants with ball attachments. An edentulous mandible model was prepared for the study based on the FRASACO mold with two implants. In the first system, the “rider” type (PRECI-HORIX, CEKA) retention structure and the complete mandibular denture with the matrix were made. In the second system, the “rider” type retention suprastructure was also used. In the distal part, (CEKA) clips were placed symmetrically, and a complete mandibular denture, together with the matrix on the bar, and the clip patrices were made. A numerical model was developed for each system where all elements were positioned and related to geometric relations, as in reality. The FEA analysis (finite element analysis) was carried out for seven types of loads: with vertical forces of 20, 50, and 100 N and oblique forces of 20 and 50 N acting on individual teeth of the denture, namely central incisor, canine, and first molar. Displacements, stresses, and deformations within the systems were investigated. Maximum denture displacement in the first system was 0.7 mm. Maximum bar stress amounted to 27.528 MPa, and implant stress to 23.16 MPa. Maximum denture displacement in the second system was 0.6 mm. Maximum bar stress amounted to 578.6 MPa, that of clips was 136.99 MPa, and that of implants was 51.418 MPa. Clips cause smaller displacement of the overdenture when it is loaded but generate higher stress within the precision elements and implants compared to a denture retained only by a bar. Regardless of the shape of the precision element, small deformations occur that mainly affect the mucosa and the matrix.

Influence of marginal bone resorption on two mini implant-retained mandibular overdenture: An in vitro study

PURPOSE

To investigate the biomechanical effect of marginal bone resorption (MBR) on the mandibular mini implant (MI)-retained overdenture (MI-OD) on the edentulous model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The experimental mandibular edentulous model was modified from a commercial model with 2 mm thick artificial soft tissue under denture base. Two MIs (Φ2.6 mm × 10 mm) were bilaterally placed between the lateral incisor and the canine area and attached with magnetic attachments. Three groups were set up as follows: 1) alveolar bone around the MI without MBR (normal group), 2) with MBR to 1/2 the length of the implant (resorption group), and 3) complete denture (CD) without MI (CD group). Strain around the MI, pressure near the first molar area, and displacement of denture were simultaneously measured, loading up to 50 N under bilateral/unilateral loading. Statistical analysis was performed using independent-samples t test and one-way ANOVA (α=.05).

RESULTS

The strain around the MI with MBR was approximately 1.5 times higher than that without MBR. The pressure in CD was higher than in MI-ODs (P <.05), while there was no statistical difference between the normal and resorption group (P >.05). Similarly, the CD demonstrated a greater displacement of the denture base than did the MI-ODs during bilateral and unilateral loadings (P <.05).

CONCLUSION

The strain around the MI with MBR was approximately 1.5 times higher than that without MBR. The pressure on posterior alveolar ridge and denture displacement of MI-ODs significantly decreased compared to CDs, even when MBR occurs. Bilateral balanced occlusion was recommended for MI-ODs, especially when MBR occurred.

Could implant position influence the peri-implant parameters in edentulous mandibles of diabetics rehabilitated with overdentures? A split-mouth randomized study

This randomized controlled trial assessed the impact of crestal level position of implants installed in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients rehabilitated with overdentures. Twenty-two mandibular edentulous T2DM patients were submitted to implant placement for retention of an overdenture. By means of a split-mouth design, two implants were installed: one at supracrestal level (SL) and one at crestal level (CL). Clinical, immunoenzymatic and tomographic analyses were performed at prosthesis placement (baseline) and after 6, 12 and 24 months following implant loading. Increased peri-implant probing depths were detected in CL implants when compared with SL implants at all time-points (baseline P=0.047; 6 months P=0.014; 12 months P=0.027; 24 months P=0.036). Indeed, augmented clinical attachment levels were also detected in CL implants when compared with SL implants at all time-points (baseline P=003; 6 months P=0.045; 12 months P=0.029; 24 months P=0.026). CL implants demonstrated increased amounts of interleukin-6 (IL-6) at 6 months (P=0.043) and higher IL-17 (P=0.021), IL-21 (P=0.034) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) concentrations (P=0.030) at 24 months in comparison with SL implants. CL group revealed enhanced bone loss from baseline to 6 (P=0.032), 12 (P=0.043) and 24 months (P=0.028) when compared with SL. In conclusion, this study showed that implants placed supracrestally in T2DM patients rehabilitated with overdentures demonstrated lower bone loss and better clinical parameters with beneficial modulation of peri-implant immunoinflammatory biomarkers when compared with implants positioned at crestal level.

FEM Analysis Applied to OT Bridge Abutment with Seeger Retention System

OBJECTIVE

 The purpose of this investigation is to highlight the technical components of a new kind of screw-retained dental implant prosthesis. The hypothesis is whether the OT Bridge (Rhein 83 S.R.L.; Bologna, Italy) system could be applied without secondary screw in the "all-on-four" retention system, thanks to the presence of an internal seeger.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 By using engineering device such as finite element method (FEM) and von Mises investigation, it has been studied how the fixed prosthodontics for full-arch retention can be influenced by the presence of the screw for stabilizing it.

RESULTS

 In a dental implant, one model with four different configurations of the full-arch prosthesis retainer and the seeger has been investigated and then examined in contrast with or without the passant screw for locking the system. The experiments of this virtual study highlighted different features and mechanical behaviors of prosthodontic attachments.

CONCLUSION

 The first two configurations, respectively those in which there are four and three connection screws, are safe and predictable. Therefore, the presence of the seeger significantly improves the stability and the retention of the whole prosthesis.

Crestal Bone Changes and Patient Satisfaction with Single Implant-Retained Mandibular Overdentures with Dalla Bona and Locator Attachments with Immediate Loading Protocols. A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study

PURPOSE

There is no enough evidence present on the success of single implant-retained mandibular overdentures (SIMO) with Dalla Bona and Locator attachments. This study aims to compare crestal bone loss and patient satisfaction with SIMO with Dalla Bona and Locator attachment following immediate loading protocols.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twelve patients included in Group 1 received immediate SIMO with Dalla Bona attachments, and another twelve patients in Group 2 received immediate SIMO with Locator attachments in the mid symphyseal region. The follow-up was scheduled at 6 and 12 months after implant placement. The patient satisfaction with the denture was evaluated with the visual analog scale (VAS) score. The data obtained were statistically analyzed with the independent student t-test for intergroup comparison and repeated measures of ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's Post hoc analysis for intragroup comparison of mean crestal bone loss at a different time interval.

RESULTS

Ten patients each in both the groups were available for follow-up. Crestal bone loss at 6 months follow-up for Dalla Bona group was 0.42 ± 0.10 mm on the mesial side and 0.43 ± 0.14 mm on the distal side and at 1 year 1.54 ± 0.16 mm on the mesial side and 1.66 ± 0.13 mm on the distal side. The mean crestal bone loss at 6 months follow-up for Locator group was 0.48 ± 0.16 mm on the mesial side and 0.45 ± 0.11 mm on the distal side and at 1 year was 1.71 ± 0.22 mm on mesial side and 1.74 ± 0.28 mm on the distal side. There was difference in bone loss at 6 months (mesial: 0.06 mm, p = 0.327; distal:0.02 mm; p = 0.726) and at 1 year (mesial: 0.17 mm, p = 0.063; distal: 0.08 mm; p = 0.423) in between two groups but the difference was statistically insignificant. There was a significant difference found in the VAS score for patient satisfaction with SIMO with Dalla Bona attachments and Locator attachments at 6 months (54.2 vs. 51.8, p = 0.005) and 1 year (60.6 vs. 55.2, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Patient satisfaction with SIMO with Dalla Bona attachments was higher during the follow-up. SIMO with Dalla Bona attachments had less crestal bone loss and less prosthetic complications when compared to Locator attachments, although the difference in the bone loss was statistically insignificant.

Effects of type of magnet attachment and implant angulation in two implant overdenture models

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of type of magnet attachment and implant angulation in two implant overdenture models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Magnet attachments used in this study were flat and dome types (MGT5515, MGT5520D, Dentium Co., Seoul, Korea). Two implants with keepers were inserted in the resin blocks at a distance of 24 mm. For the first model, the implants were parallel to the vertical and perpendicular to the horizontal; for the second model, both were angulated 5 degrees to the mesial; for the third model, both were angulated 10 degrees toward the mesial. The retentive force was measured in both vertical and lateral directions. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 22.0 (α=.05).

RESULTS

The flat type magnet attachment showed the highest lateral retentive force in the 20° divergent group (P<.05) and the dome type magnet attachment showed the highest lateral retentive force in the parallel group (P<.05). The vertical and lateral retentive force of the dome type magnet attachment was greater than that of the flat type magnet attachment in every direction (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, the dome shape magnet attachment can resist vertical and lateral retentive force more superiorly than the flat type magnet attachment, regardless of angle, in the mandibular two implant model.

Effect of mucosa thicknesses on stress distribution of implant-supported overdentures under unilateral loading: Photoelastic analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different heights of attachment and mucosa thicknesses on the stress distribution of two implant-retained mandibular overdenture designs under loading using the photoelastic stress analysis method.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six photoelastic models of an edentulous mandibula were fabricated with two solitary implants that were placed in the canine regions. The attachment systems studied were ball and locator stud attachments. Both the ball and locator groups included three models that had different residual ridge heights so as to provide different mucosa thicknesses (1 mm-1 mm, 1 mm-2 mm, 1 mm-4 mm). A static vertical force of 135 N was applied unilaterally (each on the right then the left side) to the central fossa of the first molars. Models were positioned in the field of a circular polariscope to observe the distribution of isochromatic fringes around the implants and the interimplant areas under loading. The photoelastic stress fringes were monitored and recorded photographically.

RESULTS

The ball attachment groups showed higher stress values than did the locator groups under loading. Both attachment systems produced the lowest stress values in stimulated 1 mm-1 mm mucosa thickness models. The models with 1 mm-2 mm mucosa thicknesses showed higher stress values than did other models for both attachment systems. The highest stress value observed around both attachment systems was the moderate level in all test models.

CONCLUSION

In different height mucosa thicknesses, locator attachment models distributed the load to the other side of the implant and its surrounding tissue, whereas the ball attachment did not. Regardless of mucosal thickness and attachment type, the implant on the loading side was subjected to the highest stress concentration.

Comparison of Three Different Types of Two-Implant-Supported Magnetic Attachments on the Stress Distribution in Edentulous Mandible

Two-implant-retained mandibular overdentures with magnetic attachments can provide an effective treatment modality for edentulous patients. In this study, a three-dimensional finite element analysis was used to compare the biomechanical characteristics of three different types of magnetic attachments in two-implant-retained mandibular overdentures. Flat-type, dome-type, and cushion-type of the magnetic attachments were designed to retain the overdenture. Four types of load were applied to the overdenture in each model: 100 N vertical and oblique loads on the right first molar and a 100 N vertical load on the right canine and the lower incisors. The biomechanical behaviors of peri-implant bone, abutment, and mucosa were recorded. In vertical incisors, vertical right canine, and oblique molar loading condition, the flat-type group exhibited the highest levels of maximum equivalent strain/stress in the peri-implant bone. The total deformation of mucosa and the maximum equivalent strain/stress in the oblique molar loading condition are about two times as the vertical molar loading condition. These results suggested that both cushion-type and dome-type of the magnetic attachments are better choices in two-implant-retained mandibular overdentures, and oblique loading is more harmful than vertical loading.

FEM Analysis of Dental Implant-Abutment Interface Overdenture Components and Parametric Evaluation of Equator® and Locator® Prosthodontics Attachments

The objective of this investigation was to analyze the mechanical features of two different prosthetic retention devices. By applying engineering tools like the finite element method (FEM) and Von Mises analyses, we investigated how dental implant devices hold out against masticatory strength during chewing cycles. Two common dental implant overdenture retention systems were analyzed and then compared with a universal—common dental abutment. The Equator^® attachment system and the Locator^® arrangement were processed using the FEM Ansys^® Workbench. The elastic features of the materials used in the study were taken from recent literature. Results revealed different responses for both the devices, and both systems guaranteed a perfect fit over the axial load. However, the different design and shape involves the customized use of each device for a typical clinical condition of applying overdenture systems over dental implants. The data from this virtual model showed different features and mechanical behaviors of the overdenture prosthodontics attachments. A three-dimensional system involved the fixture, abutment, and passant screws of three different dental implants that were created and analyzed. Clinicians should find the best prosthetic balance to better distribute the stress over the component, and to guarantee the patients clinical long-term results.

In vitro retention capacity of two overdenture attachment systems: Locator® and Equator®

Background

It is necessary to know the in vitro behavior of different attachment systems to be used clinically. The evolution of retention capacity over 10 years (14,600 insertion/de-insertion cycles) was determined in vitro, evaluating two overdenture attachment systems (Locator® and OT Equator®).

Material and Methods

The study used an implant replica compatible with the abutments of both systems. 10 Locator® and 10 OT Equator® attachments were screwed to the abutments. Nylon inserts were attached and tested, subjecting them to 14,600 insertion and de-insertion cycles (representing 10 years functional life) in axial direction. The universal test machine crosshead speed was 50 mm/min with a de-insertion range of 2 mm.

Results

The initial retention of Locator® was 17.02 N and of Equator® 16.36 N. After 14,600 cycles, Locator® suffered a mean loss of retention of 50.89%, while Equator® lost 69.28%. Both systems showed retention increases up to the first 1,000 cycles, which decreased thereafter up to 14.600 cycles. Statistically significant differences between the systems were found after 7,500 cycles.

Conclusions

Both systems presented acceptable retention capacities after 14,600 cycles. Significant differences in retention force between the systems evolved after 7,500 cycles (5 years in vitro use). These results should be treated with caution and should be verified clinically.

Key words:Denture, mandibular prosthesis implantation, attachment, dental implant-abutment connection, denture retention.

Locator Versus Bar Attachment Effect on the Retention and Stability of Implant-Retained Maxillary Overdenture: An In Vitro Study

PURPOSE

To compare retention and stability of Locator and bar attachments for implant-retained maxillary overdentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four implants were inserted into a maxillary acrylic resin model in canines and second premolar areas. Experimental overdentures were connected to the implants with bar (group I) or Locator (group II) attachments. Locators were divided into 3 subgroups according the degree of retention of the patrix nylon insert: Locator blue (group IIa), Locator pink (group IIb), and Locator transparent (group IIc). Retention (vertical dislodging) and stability (lateral, anterior, posterior dislodging) forces (N) were measured at the start of the experiment (initial retention) and after 540 cycles of denture insertion and removal (final retention).

RESULTS

The highest initial and final stability was recorded with group IIc, followed by group IIb and group IIa, and the lowest retention and stability was noted with group I. For all groups, the highest final retention and stability forces were noted with vertical dislodging, followed by posterior dislodging, anterior dislodging, and lateral dislodging. The highest loss of retention and stability was recorded with group I, followed by group IIc, group IIb, and group IIa.

CONCLUSION

Locator attachments are recommended to retain maxillary overdentures over Dolder bar attachments, as Locator attachments were associated with high retention and stability after wear simulation with minimal retention loss.

In vitro retention force measurement for three different attachment systems for implant-retained overdenture

AIM

The aim of this study is to compare the retention force of three different types of overdenture attachment systems used in implant-retained mandibular complete overdentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one similar acrylic resin blocks were prepared and divided into three study groups: Group A (snap attachment) - 10 specimens, Group B (locator attachment) - 1 specimen, and Group C (syncone attachment) - 10 specimens. A single rectangular heat cure acrylic resin block with two implant analogs 22 mm apart was used with all specimens. Each specimen was subjected to 5500 cycles of insertion and removal in the presence of artificial saliva, representing 5 years of usage. Retention was measured three times for each specimen using universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance at 95% level of confidence.

RESULTS

Locator attachment group (Group B) showed the greatest retention level throughout the study, followed by snap attachment (Group A), and syncone attachment (Group C) showed the lowest retention level.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of the initial retention level of overdenture attachment, gradual loss of retention values is inevitable. However, the rate of retention loss in overdenture attachments is higher in types which comprised plastic parts within their components, rather than those totally made up of noble metals.

Retentive Properties of O-Ring and Locator Attachments for Implant-Retained Maxillary Overdentures: An In Vitro Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate and compare retentive properties of O-ring and Locator attachments for implant-retained maxillary overdentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four implant analogs were inserted in canine and second premolar areas of an acrylic edentulous maxillary model. A metal-reinforced experimental acrylic overdenture was constructed and connected to the analogs using either O-ring (group I) or Locator (group II) attachments. Locators were divided into 3 subgroups according the degree of retention of the patrix nylon insert: Locator extra-light retention (group IIa), Locator light retention (group IIb), and Locator medium retention (group IIc). Vertical and oblique (lateral, anterior, and posterior) dislodging forces were measured at the beginning of the study (initial retention) and after 540 cycles of denture insertion and removal (final retention).

RESULTS

For vertical, lateral, and anterior dislodging, group IIc recorded the highest initial and final retention, and group I recorded the lowest retention. For posterior dislodging, group I recorded the highest retention, and group IIa recorded the lowest retention. For group II, vertical dislodging recorded the highest initial and final retention, and lateral dislodging recorded the lowest retention. For group I, posterior dislodging recorded the highest initial and final retention, and lateral dislodging recorded the lowest retention. For all dislodging forces (except posterior dislodging), the highest retention loss was recorded in group I, and the lowest retention loss was recorded in group IIa.

CONCLUSION

Locator medium attachment was associated with favorable retention during axial (vertical) and nonaxial (anterior and lateral) dislodging compared to other types of Locator inserts and O-ring attachments after a simulated 6-month period of overdenture use.

Strains around distally inclined implants retaining mandibular overdentures with Locator attachments: an in vitro study

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate, by means of strain gauge analysis, the effect of different implant angulations on strains around two implants retaining mandibular overdenture with Locator attachments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four duplicate mandibular acrylic models were constructed. Two implants were inserted in the canine regions using the following degrees of distal inclinations: group I (control); 0°, group II; 10°, group III; 20°, and group IV; 30°. Locator pink attachments were used to connect the overdenture to the implants and Locator red (designed for severely angled implants) was used for group IV (group IV_red). For each group, two linear strain gauges were attached at the mesial and distal surfaces of the acrylic resin around each implant. Peri-implant strain was measured on loading and non-loading sides during bilateral and unilateral loading.

RESULTS

For all groups, the mesial surfaces of the implants at loading and non-loading sides experienced compressive (negative) strains, while the distal implant surfaces showed tensile (positive) strains. Group IV showed the highest strain, followed by group III, group II. Both group I and group IV_red showed the lowest strain. The strain gauges at the mesial surface of the loading side recorded the highest strain, and the distal surface at non-loading side showed the lowest strain. Unilateral loading recorded significantly higher strain than bilateral loading.

CONCLUSION

Peri-implant strains around two implants used to retain mandibular overdentures with Locator attachments increase as distal implant inclination increases, except when red nylon inserts were used.

Locators versus magnetic attachment effect on peri-implant tissue health of immediate loaded two implants retaining a mandibular overdenture: a 1-year randomised trial

This study aimed to evaluate peri-implant tissue health of immediate loaded two implants retaining a mandibular overdenture with either magnetic or locator attachment. Thirty two completely edentulous patients (20 males/12 females) were randomly assigned into two groups. Each patient received two implants in the canine area of the mandible using flapless surgical technique. Mandibular overdentures were immediately connected to the implants with either magnetic (group I, GI) or locator (group II, GII) attachments. Peri-implant tissue health was evaluated clinically in terms of plaque scores (PI), bleeding scores (BI), probing depth (PD), implant stability (ISQ) and interleukin-1-β (IL-1b) concentrations in peri-implant sulcular fluid. PI, BI and PD were measured at mesial, distal, buccal and lingual surfaces of each implant. Radiographic evaluation was performed in terms of vertical (VBL) and horizontal (HBLO) alveolar bone loss. Evaluations were performed 2 weeks (T0), 6 months (T1) and 12 months (T2) after overdenture insertion. Plague scores, PD, IL-1b, VBL and HBLO increased significantly with time. ISQ decreased significantly with time. BI showed no significant differences between observation times. GI recorded significant higher PI, ISQ and IL-1b at T2 compared to GII. GII recorded significant higher VBL than GI at T2 only. For HBLO, no significant differences between groups were noted. VBL and HBLO showed a significant positive correlation with PD. Locator attachments for immediate loaded implants retaining mandibular overdentures are associated with decreased plaque accumulation, decreased implant stability, decreased interleukin-1β concentration in peri-implant crevicular fluid and increased per-implant vertical bone loss compared to magnetic attachments after 1 year.

Effects of posterior ridge resorption and attachment wear on periimplant strain in mandibular two-implant-supported overdentures

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Progressive resorption of the posterior residual ridge and attachment wear increase the rotational movement of mandibular 2-implant-supported overdentures (IODs). Limited information is available regarding the biomechanical effects of rotational movement on anterior implants during mastication.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to analyze the effects of posterior ridge resorption and attachment wear, using simulated IODs to examine periimplant strain changes under dynamic loading conditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two dental implants were positioned in the canine regions of a mandibular edentulous cast. Two mandibular edentulous models were fabricated from the cast by using a fixture-level impression technique, and IODs reinforced with a cobalt-chromium cast framework were prepared using the laboratory models. Two different types of stud attachments (Locator and O-ring) were connected to each paired model and to the IOD. Using a dynamic load of 100 N, continuous stress-strain changes were recorded under 3 conditions: the original condition of the paired laboratory models and the IODs, following a 1-mm reduction of the posterior residual ridge support, and after performing a fatigue test to simulate attachment wear after reduction of the posterior ridge support. After these measurements, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to analyze attachment wear.

RESULTS

In all implants, the 1-mm posterior ridge reduction and attachment wear procedure did not remarkably elevate tensile forces compared with their original condition. All stress-strain curves showed phased strain changes caused by the rotational movement of the IODs. After the fatigue test, the shape of the stress-strain curve changed from a smooth curve to a polygonal line compared with that in the previous records. The Locator matrices showed more wear than the other attachment components.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither attachment wear nor an increase of the IOD rotational movement caused by an approximately 1-mm decrease in the posterior mucosal support led to significant changes in the periimplant strain in IODs.

Implant-supported overdenture with prefabricated bar attachment system in mandibular edentulous patient

Implant-supported overdenture is a reliable treatment option for the patients with edentulous mandible when they have difficulty in using complete dentures. Several options have been used for implant-supported overdenture attachments. Among these, bar attachment system has greater retention and better maintainability than others. SFI-Bar® is prefabricated and can be adjustable at chairside. Therefore, laboratory procedures such as soldering and welding are unnecessary, which leads to fewer errors and lower costs. A 67-year-old female patient presented, complaining of mobility of lower anterior teeth with old denture. She had been wearing complete denture in the maxilla and removable partial denture in the mandible with severe bone loss. After extracting the teeth, two implants were placed in front of mental foramen, and SFI-Bar® was connected. A tube bar was seated to two adapters through large ball joints and fixation screws, connecting each implant. The length of the tube bar was adjusted according to inter-implant distance. Then, a female part was attached to the bar beneath the new denture. This clinical report describes two-implant-supported overdenture using the SFI-Bar® system in a mandibular edentulous patient.