A two-year longitudinal study of the periodontal health status of overdenture patients.

Eleven patients who were treated with maxillary or mandibular overdentures or both were recalled at 6-month intervals and studied for a period of 2 years. A periodontist evaluated the periodontal health status of the abutment teeth at initial placement of the overdenture and at all subsequent recalls using standardized periodontal indices. Statistical comparisons of the data from initial examination to the 2-year recall were made to assess the periodontal health status of roots supporting overdentures. Periodic, regular recall of patients treated with overdentures is one of the most important factors in the maintenance of the integrity of the root stumps and attachment apparatus, particularly since the roots supporting mandibular overdentures are at greater risk periodontally than those supporting maxillary overdentures. Measurements of pocket depth and width of attached gingivae seem to be the most definitive criteria to determine the status of the attachment apparatus in overdenture patients. With frequent recall, overdentures appear to be a successful method of treatment.