Masticatory function of immediately loaded two-implant mandibular overdentures: A 5-year prospective study

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Rehabilitation

Background:

• Mandibular edentulism presents challenges for masticatory function and quality of life.
• Conventional treatments may not fully restore optimal chewing efficiency.
• Two-implant overdentures offer a potential solution for stabilizing dentures and improving function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of immediately loaded two-implant overdentures in edentulous mandibles.
• To assess the impact of this treatment on masticatory performance, occlusal force, and contact area.
• To investigate the long-term outcomes of guided flapless implant surgery for overdenture fabrication.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen edentulous patients received two dental implants in the canine positions using guided flapless surgery.
• A complete denture was utilized as a radiographic guide for precise implant placement.
• Immediately loaded overdentures with ball attachments were fitted on the day of surgery, with function assessed over 5 years.

Main Results:

• Occlusal contact area significantly improved within 6 months post-surgery.
• Maximum occlusal force showed significant increase at 24 months.
• Masticatory performance demonstrated significant improvement from 48 months onwards, with all parameters maintained for 5 years.

Conclusions:

• Immediately loaded two-implant overdentures provide significant functional improvements for edentulous mandibles.
• Guided flapless surgery is an effective technique for precise implant placement in this context.
• The study confirms the long-term stability and efficacy of this prosthetic solution over a 5-year period.