Retention systems for implant-retained overdentures

There have been demographic and cultural changes in the past few decades with regards to edentulism. Conventional mucosa-borne dentures can be poorly accepted by some patients. Implant overdentures have a useful role to play in the treatment of some of these patients. Some form of attachment mechanism between the implants and the prosthesis is normally required. This paper updates the reader on the different types of attachment systems and bars available.

It is important that dentists and technicians are able to understand the advantages and disadvantages of different attachment types for overdentures, in order to select the most appropriate technique for each patient.