Comparison of 2 retentive systems for implant-supported overdentures: soft tissue management and evaluation of patient satisfaction.

Background: The aim of the present study was to compare the peri-implant soft tissue health status of implants supporting overdentures with bar attachments or ball attachments in the mandible, as well as patient satisfaction with these attachment types.

Methods: The study included a Dolder bar group with 18 cases (43 implants) and a ball attachment group with 18 cases (51 implants). The mean function period in the Dolder bar group was 49 months (range: 12 to 72 months) and in the ball attachment group, the mean was 23 months (range: 12 to 40 months). Implants were clinically evaluated by using a modified plaque index (mPI), modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), and probing depths. Patient satisfaction with the treatment was recorded using a questionnaire.

Results: mPI, probing depth, and mSBI did not statistically differ between groups (Mann-Whitney U test, P > 0.05). Patient satisfaction was similar with both retentive systems.

Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, we concluded that there was no significant difference between the 2 attachment types used for implant-supported overdentures with respect to the soft tissue health status or patient satisfaction.