OHRQoL, masticatory performance and crestal bone loss with single-implant, magnet-retained mandibular overdentures with conventional and shortened dental arch.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the use of single implant-supported, magnet-retained mandibular overdentures to improve the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and masticatory performance of patients wearing conventional complete dentures. The study also aimed at comparing the OHRQoL, masticatory performance, and crestal bone loss with two different types of overdenture prosthesis.

Materials And Methods: Ten completely edentulous patients with atrophic mandibular residual alveolar ridges and having difficulty coping with technically adequate mandibular dentures were selected for implant-supported overdentures (ISOD). To assess the success of the implant fixture clinically, a crossover study design was followed, and the patients were divided into two groups. Group A received ISOD with conventional complete dental arch, and group B received ISOD with a shortened dental arch for the first 3 months and vice versa for the next 3 months. The OHRQoL was measured with the OHIP-49 questionnaire, and masticatory performance was assessed with the sieve method using peanuts as test food. Peri-apical radiographs were taken to evaluate the crestal bone loss.

Results: A significant improvement was seen both subjectively and objectively when conventional complete dentures were modified to implant-supported prosthesis. When comparing the implant overdenture prosthesis, patients were more satisfied with conventional arch than with the shortened dental arch. In the first 3 months following implant placement, less bone loss was seen with the shortened dental arch overdenture (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Single implant-supported, magnet-retained mandibular overdentures significantly improve the OHRQoL of completely edentulous patients.