Assessment of Patient Satisfaction and Masticatory Efficiency with Implant-Supported Overdentures Versus Conventional...

Tooth loss significantly affects oral function and quality of life. While conventional complete dentures (CDs) have long been the standard treatment for edentulous patients, implant-supported overdentures (IODs) offer improved retention, stability, and function.

A total of 40 completely edentulous patients aged between 50 and 75 years were enrolled in this comparative study. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 20) received conventional maxillary and mandibular dentures, while Group B (n = 20) received mandibular IODs retained with two implants and conventional maxillary dentures. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a standardized questionnaire comprising ten items related to comfort, stability, speech, and aesthetics using a 5-point Likert scale. Masticatory efficiency was evaluated using the sieving method with standardized food particles (peanuts) and measuring particle size distribution after chewing.

Patients in the IOD group (Group B) reported significantly higher satisfaction scores (mean = 45.2 ± 3.1) compared to the CD group (mean = 36.7 ± 4.5), P < 0.001. Masticatory efficiency was also significantly better in Group B, with a greater percentage of finely chewed particles (mean = 72.5% ±5.4%) compared to Group A (mean = 54.3% ±6.7%), P < 0.001. Improvements in stability, comfort during mastication, and confidence in social settings were notable in the IOD group.

IODs provide superior patient satisfaction and masticatory efficiency compared to conventional CDs. They significantly enhance oral function and quality of life for edentulous individuals and should be considered a preferred treatment option when feasible.