Digital Bite Force and Peri-Implant Bone Loss Evaluation with Attachments Used in Implant-Retained Mandibular Overdentures

Abstract

It has been recognized that attachments used with implant overdentures improve function and extend the longevity of the prosthesis in completely edentulous patients. The objective of this study was to compare the difference between two different attachments, Locator and OLS (One-piece Locator abutment System) used with implant-retained mandibular overdentures, regarding the bite force and peri-implant marginal bone loss. Materials and methods: 20 completely edentulous patients were categorized into two groups, (group I) received two implants with Locator attachments retaining mandibular overdentures, (group II) received the same treatment but the attachments were OLS. Periimplant bone loss using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was evaluated as the primary
outcome, and bite force using T- Scan was assessed as a secondary outcome, and both records were compared between the two groups. Results: The difference in bone height changes between the two groups, was not statistically significant at 3 and 6 months but there was a significant difference after 12 months, in which (group II) had marginal bone loss significantly higher than (group I). At all times of evaluation, there was no significant difference in all the parameters tested by the T-Scan (maximum occlusal force, number of contacts, and bilateral difference in occlusal force) between the two groups. Conclusion: Locator attachments exert less stress on peri-implant bone than OLS attachments, thus less peri-implant bone loss. As for digital occlusal analysis, both Locator and OLS attachments have comparable results on occlusal force distribution and the number of tooth contacts.