A 1.5 year randomized controlled trial comparing standard-sized implants and four mini-implants retaining mandibular...

To evaluate retention, masticatory performance, and patient satisfaction of complete mandibular dentures retained by four mini-implants (MIs) versus two standard implants (SIs) with functional-immediate loading, and to compare subjective and objective evaluations.

Twenty-nine participants, classified according to the American College of Prosthodontists Classification as Class I or II, were edentulous for 6 months to 30 years, with a history of 0-3 previous dentures. Participants were allocated into three groups: Group S (n = 11) received two SIs (3.75 mm, Intrahex, Intra-Lock), Group M3 (n = 8), and Group M2.5 (n = 10) received four MIs (3 and 2.5 mm, respectively; Inclusive, Prismatik Dentalcraft). Outcomes were evaluated before loading and after 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. Retention was measured with a digital force gauge, patient satisfaction using the McGill Denture Satisfaction Questionnaire, and masticatory performance with the single-sieve method. One-way ANOVA and paired t-test were used (p ≤ 0.05).

Retention, masticatory performance, and patient satisfaction improved significantly across all groups (p < 0.01). No intergroup and intragroup significant differences were found, except for retention in Group S, which showed higher values than MI groups and decreased over time (p < 0.05).

According to the results of this study, all groups showed improved retention, masticatory performance, and patient satisfaction. Group S had better retention initially, but it decreased over time. Both MI groups demonstrated similar masticatory performance and patient satisfaction as Group S. MI groups exhibited similar outcomes. Subjective evaluation can be a sufficient alternative to objective tests.