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

This study aimed to investigate the influence of different overdenture attachment systems on the stress generated in peri-implant bone during overdenture dislodgement and loading. Two implants were placed in the canine regions on an acrylic edentulous mandibular model. Four strain gauges were attached to the resin surface adjacent to the left implant. Bar, ball, and magnetic attachments were examined. Three experimental overdentures were fabricated, and the denture parts of the attachment systems were incorporated into the mucosal surface. Retentive forces and strains generated in peri-implant bone during three types of dislodgement (vertical, anterior and posterior) and loading (left first molar region, right first molar region and mid-anterior region) were measured. The bar attachment showed the highest retentive force and reduced strain on posterior dislodgement. The ball attachment demonstrated the largest strain on loading at molar regions. The magnetic attachment showed the smallest retentive force and little strain.