Resilient Stud Versus Bar Attachments for Immediately Loaded Implants Supporting Mandibular Overdentures: 1-year...

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Mandibular overdentures supported by immediately loaded implants offer a viable solution for edentulous patients.
• The choice of attachment system significantly impacts clinical and patient-centered outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical and patient-centered outcomes of resilient stud (Locator) and stress-free implant bar (SFI-Bar) attachments for immediately loaded mandibular overdentures.

Main Methods:

• Thirty edentulous patients received four immediately loaded implants in the mandible using computer-guided, flapless surgery.
• Patients were randomized to receive overdentures with either Locator or SFI-Bar attachments.
• Evaluations included marginal bone loss, plaque/gingival indices, pocket depth, implant stability, survival, and patient satisfaction over 12 months.

Main Results:

• Both attachment types showed increased marginal bone loss, plaque scores, and probing depth over time.
• SFI-Bar demonstrated less marginal bone loss but higher plaque scores and probing depth compared to Locator.
• Implant survival rates were high and comparable (96.6% Locator, 98.3% SFI-Bar).
• Locator attachments resulted in significantly higher patient satisfaction with retention, comfort, and cleaning.

Conclusions:

• Both resilient stud and stress-free bar attachments are successful for immediately loaded four-implant mandibular overdentures.
• Locator attachments may be preferred for improved peri-implant soft tissue health and patient satisfaction.
• SFI-Bar attachments might offer advantages in marginal bone preservation.