Head and Neck Cancer Treatment with Mandibular Overdenture on Implants

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Rehabilitation

Background:

• Edentulism significantly impacts masticatory efficiency, aesthetics, and quality of life.
• Patients undergoing radiotherapy for oral cancer often require specialized oral rehabilitation.
• Conventional complete dentures may not provide adequate stability and function for some patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a clinical case report on oral rehabilitation using a conventional complete denture and an implant-supported overdenture.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of this combined prosthetic approach in improving masticatory function, aesthetics, and patient well-being.
• To highlight the importance of considering biopsychosocial principles in treatment planning for edentulous patients.

Main Methods:

• A 74-year-old male patient, post-radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma, presented with edentulism and masticatory inefficiency.
• Treatment involved fabricating an upper conventional complete denture and a lower overdenture supported by two pre-existing mandibular implants.
• The Osstell device was used to monitor implant stability.

Main Results:

• The patient reported improved masticatory comfort and enhanced aesthetics post-prosthesis installation.
• Significant improvements in self-esteem and overall quality of life were observed.
• The prosthetic solution provided longevity and met the patient's age-specific needs.

Conclusions:

• Implant-supported overdentures, combined with conventional dentures, offer a viable solution for oral rehabilitation in edentulous patients.
• This prosthetic approach effectively restores masticatory function, improves aesthetics, and positively impacts psychosocial well-being.
• Careful treatment planning and execution are crucial for achieving long-term success in implant-based prosthetic treatments.