[Cost-effectiveness when treating an edentulous mandible]

When treating an edentulous patient with complaints of unsatisfactory retention of his complete mandibular denture, various treatment options are available: a new conventional denture, an implant-supported overdenture, and an implant-supported fixed partial denture. Important considerations during the decision-making process are patient satisfaction, cost of denture fabrication, and cost of maintenance. The outcome of the diagnostic procedure will have financial consequences. On that basis, a satisfactory treatment plan can be established and carried out. The need exists for a protocol which takes into account cost-effectiveness and is useful in selecting the appropriate treatment option, adjusted to individual requirements.