Four-year assessment of masticatory function in mandibular overdenture wearers: A randomised clinical trial comparing two to four implants to retain the prosthesis.

BACKGROUND: Limited data exist on the mid- to long-term masticatory capacity of mandibular overdenture (IOD) wearers, particularly regarding the use of posterior implants to retention. OBJECTIVES: To periodically evaluate mastication of IOD wearers, comparing the effectiveness of two to four implants to retain the prosthesis. METHODS: In a randomised controlled clinical trial, 20 complete edentulous patients (14 women), aged 51-84 years (mean age 69.1 ± 9.6), received new bimaxillary complete dentures (CD). After adaptation, baseline measurements of masticatory performance (X50) and swallowing threshold were conducted using the sieving method. Patients were then randomly assigned to groups: control (two intra-foraminal regular implants) and experimental (two intra-foraminal regular implants and two extra-short posterior implants) (n = 10 each). After 4 months, implants were splinted, and a new mandibular IOD was fabricated with bar/clip retention. Mastication was reassessed after 6, 12, and 48 months, and data analysed with repeated measures ANOVA and Sidak's post hoc (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Despite a loss of two patients per group, masticatory performance significantly improved after mandibular IOD installation (p = .031) in both groups (p = .670). A second improvement was observed after 6 months (p = .027), with no subsequent changes (p > .05). Swallowing threshold improvements were noted with IOD, and no discernible differences between groups were observed (p > .05). CONCLUSION: Masticatory function significantly improved after mandibular IOD installation, with the number of implants demonstrating minimal influence. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: The present study was not registered in a public database, as mandated. It is important to note that the recommendation for registration was initiated in 2017 by the Committee of Medical Journal Editors, while patient inclusion in the research took place in 2016. Given that the data presented in this manuscript cover a follow-up period of up to 4 years post-surgical intervention, delayed registration was not feasible.

Digital workflow to produce 3D-printed incisal facial indirect restoration with lingual rest seats to support a removable partial denture.

A technique for fabricating lingual rest seats and indirect incisal restorations using a digital workflow is described. After intraoral scanning, the incisal edge position of the restoration and lingual rest seats for a subsequent removable partial denture (RPD) were designed digitally. Adaptation was evaluated with trial restorations, and definitive restorations were printed from a 3-dimensional resin (Varseo Smile Crown Plus Bego; Wilcos). The restorations were cemented with a heated composite resin (Tetric N; Ivoclar AG) polymerized for 40 seconds. The RPD was fabricated and delivered following a conventional technique. This standard, rapid, cost-effective, and straightforward approach allows a controlled and standardized process to obtain lingual rest seats and incisal restorations simultaneously, providing support for a successful Kennedy Class I RPD.

Surface treatments to improve the repair of acrylic and bis-acryl provisional materials.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the in vitro effects of the Composite Primer and different surface treatments on the shear bond strength (SBS) of acrylic and bis-acryl repairs with resin composite (RC). METHODS: Acrylic (Alike) and bis-acryl (Protemp 4) blocks were prepared. Surface roughness was standardized (0.16 µm) and grit blasting was applied to half of the samples. Blocks were divided randomly into groups according to surface treatment [methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) for 180 seconds or bonding agents (Composite Primer and Scotchbond Multi Purpose), applied alone or following MMA]. Two consistencies of RC [ regular (Filtek Z350XT and Solare composite) or flowable (Filtek Z350XT flowable and G-aenial flowable composite) ] were used to test bond repair. Cylinders (2 mm diameter) of each RC (n= 10/group) were attached to the block surface, and SBS was measured using a universal testing machine at 0.5 mm/minute. Failure (adhesive, cohesive or mixed) was assessed under ×3.5 magnification. SBS data were analyzed using factorial ANOVA, followed by Tukey post-hoc, and Weibull moduli estimation (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The highest SBS, Weibull modulus (m) and scale parameter (σ0) were found in combined use of MMA and bonding agents (P< 0.001), regardless of the substrate, RC consistency or brand. The use of the Composite Primer and flowable RC also increased SBS (P< 0.001). Significant interaction between surface treatment and RC consistency was observed for the PMMA substrate (P< 0.001). Sandblasting did not influence SBS (P> 0.05). Adhesive failure was most prevalent (93.5%) and SBS values were significantly higher in mixed fractures (19.2± 3.8 MPa) compared to the adhesive ones (9.7± 6.0 MPa) (P< 0.001). No cohesive fracture was observed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Composite Primer improved the adhesion of acrylic and bis-acryl repairs, especially when a flowable composite was used. When such product is not available, the combined use of MMA and a bonding agent is necessary, increasing the number of clinical steps, cost, and time required.

Impact of the extension of the anterior-posterior spread on quality of life and satisfaction of patients treated with implant-retained mandibular overdentures - a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the degree of satisfaction (SD) and the impact on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of edentulous patients treated with conventional complete dentures (CCDs) and mandibular overdentures (IODs) with a short anteroposterior spread (S-APS) or a large antero-posterior spread (L-APS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Edentulous patients were treated with CCDs and subsequently randomly allocated to receive a bar clip mandibular overdenture retained by 2 interforaminal implants (Control) or 4 (Test: 2 additional implants distal to the mental foramen). The Oral Health Impact Profile Edent questionnaire (OHIP-20E) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were applied at a mean follow-up of 38.5 months to assess the impact on OHRQoL and DS, respectively. Comparisons between the type of prosthesis and the extension of the AP spread were made with Student's t test for paired samples and for independent samples, respectively, at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The IODs had significantly lower OHRQoL values ​​in the dimensions "functional limitation" (p=0.03), "physical pain" (p=0.02), "psychological discomfort" (p<0.01), "disability physical" (p<0.01) and "general score" (p<0.01) (n=20 patients). The IODs presented DS values ​​significantly for "aesthetics" (p=0.04), "stability" (p=0.03), "masticatory capacity" (p<0.01), "function" (p<0.01) and "oral condition" (p=0.03). The S-APS group (control) resulted in significantly lower values ​​in the dimensions "physical pain" (p<0.01) and "general score" (p<0.01) and no domain with statistical difference in the VAS scale. CONCLUSIONS: IODs significantly improved OHRQoL and DS. The increase in AP spread did not result in benefits for the patient's OHRQOL and DS in this clinical study. (Study Protocol Number: 1.452.492) CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Implantology has experienced in the last 20 years a permanent evolution that aim at increasing predictability and improving long-term clinical performance. Placement of short implants distally to the mental foramen, for instance, and the resulting increase of the anterior-posterior spread, is a promising approach and is worthy of investigation.

Digital and Analog Analysis of Occlusion in Conventional and Implant-Retained Complete Dentures: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: To digitally evaluate the static and dynamic occlusion of patients treated with both removable conventional complete dentures (CCDs) and implant-retained removable overdentures (IODs) and to correlate two different methods of occlusal analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven totally edentulous patients were treated with bimaxillary CCDs. Later, mandibular CCDs were replaced by IODs retained by either two or four implants. The distribution of the occlusal contacts in static and dynamic occlusion was compared by means of the digital method (DM; T-Scan III) and the analog method (AM; articulating paper). Scores 0, 1, and 2 were assigned for inadequate, satisfactory, and adequate distribution of the occlusal contacts, respectively. The frequencies of scores were compared in relation to the types of denture by means of Fisher exact test (P < .05). The correlation between methods was assessed by means of the kappa agreement coefficient (κ) and the correlation coefficient phi (φ) (P < .05). RESULTS: Significant differences between CCDs and IODs were found in the right lateral mandibular movement (DM, P = .024; AM, P = .008), as well as in the left lateral mandibular movement (DM, P = .035). The methods of analysis of the occlusion showed a moderate agreement (κ = 0.604; P < .001) and a moderate correlation (φ = 0.605; P < .001). CONCLUSION: The digital and analog methods showed a significant agreement and moderate correlation, irrespective of the type of complete denture. The T-Scan III digital system seems to be a consistent and reproducible method to analyze occlusion.

Primary and Secondary Stability of Extrashort (4-mm) Implants in the Edentulous Mandible: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the primary and secondary stability of conventional (≥ 8-mm) and extrashort (4-mm) implants in edentulous patients using different methods of assessment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients underwent implant surgery and were randomly allocated into two groups: test, with two conventional implants in the anterior region and two extrashort (4-mm) implants in the posterior region; and control, with two conventional (≥ 8-mm) implants in the anterior region only. Primary stability (S1-implant placement) was assessed by insertion torque, implant stability quotient (ISQ, Osstell), and damping capacity (PTV, Periotest), while secondary stability (S221-21 days after S1; and S2clip-at prosthetic loading, ± 3 months after S1) was evaluated by ISQ and PTV. The statistical significance level was set at P < .05. RESULTS: Fifty conventional implants and 24 extrashort implants were placed in 25 patients. The overall survival rate was 97.3%. There was no statistically significant difference between the insertion torque of conventional and extrashort implants (P > .05). PTV values were significantly lower for conventional implants only at S2clip (P = .041). ISQ values were significantly greater for conventional implants at S1 (P = .004), whereas at S221 and S2clip, no differences were found (P = .413 and P = .490, respectively). Damping capacity showed no significant differences between S1-S2M21 and S1-S2clip. ISQ values showed a significant increase of stability between S1-S2clip, for conventional (P = .022) and extrashort (P = .005) implants, which was different from that observed between S1-S221. There was a moderate negative correlation between the PTV and ISQ variables (r = 0.5) of extrashort implants, and between the PTV and insertion torque (r = -0.3) of conventional implants. For extrashort implants, there was a null correlation between ISQ and torque (r = 0.0). There was a moderately positive correlation between ISQ and torque (r = 0.3) in the conventional implant group. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that extrashort and conventional implants present similar primary and secondary stability values and may similarly influence restorative protocols.

Adhesion to high-performance polymers applied in dentistry: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systemic review, conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement, was to investigate the impact of surface pretreatments on the bonding strength of high performance polymers (HPPs). METHODS: Eight databases were searched through March 2019. Risk of bias was assessed and random effects meta-analyses were applied to analyze mean differences in shear bond strength (SBS) and tensile bond strength (TBS), considering surface pretreatments and bonding agents after 24h and thermocycling. RESULTS: A total of 235 relevant titles and abstracts were found, yielding 11 final selections. Low risk of bias was observed in most studies. For polyetheretherketone (PEEK) specimens, random-effect models showed that, compared to non-treated controls, pretreatments associated with Visio.link® (Bredent, Senden, GE) increased TBS by 26.72MPa (95% confidence interval (CI), 19.69-33.76; p<0.00001) and increased SBS by 4.86MPa (95% CI, 2.61-7.10; p<0.00001). Air abrasion improved SBS by 4.90MPa (95% CI, 3.90-5.90; p<0.00001) (50µm alumina) and 4.51MPa (95% CI, 1.85-7.18; p=0.0009) (silica-coated CoJet). In comparison to non-treated controls, Visio.link® and Signum PEEK Bond® (Heraeus Kulzer, Hanau, GE) increased SBS by 33.76MPa (95% CI, 18.72-48.81; p<0.00001) and 33.28MPa (95% CI, 17.48-49.07; p<0.00001), respectively. No differences were found between Visio.link® and Signum PEEK Bond® or Monobond Plus/Heliobond® (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, LH) (p>0.05). Similar results were observed for polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) specimens. SIGNIFICANCE: This review shows improved HPP bonding following the application of various surface pretreatments, including air abrasion and bonding agents.

Fixed and Removable Full-Arch Restorations Supported by Short (≤ 8-mm) Dental Implants In the Mandible: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate, through a systematic review of the literature, the published data regarding marginal bone loss, implant failure proportion, biologic and prosthetic complications, and risk factors associated with short (≤ 8-mm) implants supporting fixed or removable full-arch restorations in the edentulous mandible. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two reviewers performed a search of five databases, with handsearching through the reference lists and grey literature. Controlled clinical trials and prospective cohort studies were selected in a two-phase process. The data were independently gathered for the same two reviewers. Quality assessment of the studies was done using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions for Randomized Clinical Trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for Prospective Cohort Studies. Marginal bone loss and Implant failure proportion were meta-analyzed using random (R-Em) and fixed-effects models (FEm), respectively, with a 95% confidence interval. A descriptive analysis was performed of the prevalence of biologic and prosthetic complications. Meta-regression analysis was run as fixed-effect models for risk factors. RESULTS: Six studies met the eligibility criteria and had data extracted. A total of 291 short implants (lengths 5 to 8 mm) were placed in 122 patients (82 females; mean age, 64.7 ± 10.8) supporting 23 fixed and 99 removable full-arch restorations. The pooled marginal bone loss overall was 0.12 mm (0.07 to 0.17 mm). Marginal bone loss for fixed full-arch restorations was 0.11 mm (0.01 to 0.21 mm) and for removable full-arch restorations was 0.14 mm (0.07 to 0.21 mm). The pooled implant failure proportion was 2.0% (1.0% to 5.0%) for the overall studies. Implant failure proportion for fixed and removable restorations was 2.0% with a confidence interval of (0.0% to 9%) and (0.0% to 6%), respectively. The prevalence of prosthetic complications was 34.5% for fixed restorations and 2.6% for removable restorations. No biologic complications were found for fixed restorations, while 13.1% of removable restorations did have biologic complications. Risk factors did not demonstrate statistical differences regarding Implant failure proportion and marginal bone loss. All included studies demonstrated a high methodological quality. CONCLUSION: Findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that full-arch restorations supported by short implants in atrophic edentulous mandibles might be a viable treatment option, presenting minimal marginal bone loss and implant failure in the short-term. However, further well-performed prospective clinical trials with long-term observation are needed.

Determinação da dimensão vertical proteticamente conveniente / Determination of the prosthetically convenient vertical dimension

Este artigo descreve as principais técnicas utilizadas para garantir uma maior coincidência de achados clínicos, que se traduz no posicionamento mandibular em um dado espaço conhecido como conveniência protética.(AU).

This article describes the main techniques used to assure a greater coincidence of clinical findings, translated in the mandibular position in a space known as prosthetically convenient.

Determinação da relação cêntrica pelo registro do Arco Gótico de Gysi em paciente edêntulo total / Determining the centric relation for the edentulous patient with the Gothic Arch of Gysi

Este artigo descreve a técnica de confecção dos dispositivos intraorais e a realização do registro do arco gótico, com consequente determinação da Relação Cêntrica (RC) em um paciente edêntulo total. (AU)

The aim of this paper was to describe the technique of intraoral devices making for the recording of the Gothic Arch Tracings, and consequently the determination of the Centric Relation (CR), in a total edentulous patient. (AU)

O passo a passo da instalação da sobredentadura para o sistema barra-clipe Straumann® / The step-by-step of the installation of a bar-clip overdenture over Straumann® implants

Este artigo descreve o passo a passo e a sequência clínica de instalação do clipe sobre a barra de sobredentaduras, utilizando o sistema Straumann®.

This article describes step by step and the clinical installation sequence of a bar-clip overdenture, using the Straumann® Dental Implant System.

O papel do índex de gesso na precisão da transferência de implantes para confecção de sobredentadura mandibular / The role of the stone index in the precise implant impression of mandibular overdentures

Este artigo descreve a técnica de utilização de um índex de gesso para diminuir os problemas de adaptação da barra metálica em sobredentaduras mandibulares. São detalhados também a técnica de moldagem e a concomitante transferência dos implantes. (AU).

This article describes the utilization of a plaster index to avoid the problems of adaptation of the metal bar in mandibular overdentures. The impression technique and the simultaneous transference of the implants are also detailed. (AU).

O passo a passo da moldagem em sobredentaduras mandibulares / Mandibular Overdenture impression step by step

Este artigo descreve o passo a passo da execução do molde em sobredentaduras mandibulares, contemplando a reprodução da área basal com excelência e a transferência dos implantes com precisão.

This article describes the mandibular overdenture impression step by step, showing the optimal reproduction of the basal area and the precise implants transference.

Utilizando a fotografia digital na harmonização facial / The use of digital photography at facial harmonization

A utilização da fotografia digital em Odontologia, para diagnóstico e tratamento de casos complexos, aumenta a previsibilidade dos desfechos, a compreensão por parte do paciente frente às possibilidades de resolução e diminui a incorporação de erros ao processo.

The use of the digital photography in Dentistry, for both diagnosis and treatment planning of complex cases, increases the predictability of the outcomes, and patients' understanding about the possibilities of resolution, as well as reduces the occurrence of errors along the process.

Desmistificando a moldagem em Prótese Total / Demystifying Complete Denture impression

Este artigo descreve a utilização de alginato e silicone de adição para a obtenção de moldes, preliminares e definitivos, em casos de moldagens de pacientes edêntulos.

This article describes the use of alginate and vinyl polysiloxane to obtain preliminar and functional impressions for edentulous patients.

Como utilizar o conceito da Zona Neutra para otimizar a Prótese / Using the Neutral Zone concept to improve the lower complete

Este artigo descreve os passos para a utilização da filosofia da Técnica da Zona Neutra. Através dessa filosofia, procura-se localizar uma área, em boca, onde as forças geradas pela língua são neutralizadas pelas forças geradas pelos lábios e bochechas, estabilizando assim a prótese.

This article describes step-by-step the application of the Neutral Zone technique philosophy. It is based upon the concept that for each individual patient, there is within the denture space a specific area where the function of the musculature will not unseat the denture and where forces generated by the tongue are neutralized by the forces generated by the lips and cheeks.

Correção do plano oclusal antagonista utilizando o rolete de cera / Correction of the antagonistic occlusal plane using the wax rim

Este artigo descreve a técnica de correção de um plano oclusal dentado, antagonista a uma prótese total, utilizando como base o plano de cera convencional. Esse procedimento é indispensável para favorecer a estabilidade das próteses durante os movimentos de desoclusão.

This article describes the alignment technique of a dentate occlusal plane, antagonistic to a complete denture, using wax rim as a reference. This procedure is essential in order to favor the stability of the prosthesis during excursive movements.

Onde se encontra o travamento posterior da maxila de uma prótese total superior? / Where is the postpalatal seal in a complete upper denture?

Na confecção de uma prótese total superior, a delimitação correta do travamento posterior é uma responsabilidade do clínico. Para evidenciá-lo, esse deve basear-se em referências anatômicas e fatores fisiológicos individuais de cada paciente.

During the fabrication of a complete denture the practitioner is responsible for a proper postpalatal seal. Thus it must be based on anatomic structures and physiologic aspects of each patient.

Prótese total imediata ­ do planejamento à instalação / Complete immediate denture ­ planning and performing

A confecção de uma Prótese Total Imediata é um procedimento complexo para os profissionais e estressante para o paciente. O presente artigo descreve a sequência clínica do planejamento à realização deste procedimento, com segurança e previsibilidade.

The fabrication of an Immediate Complete Denture is a complex procedure for the practitioners involved and a stressing situation for the patient. This article describes the clinical sequence for planning and performing this procedure with safety and predictability.

Construindo a beleza do sorriso / Construction of a beautiful smile

A construção de uma reabilitação harmoniosa e estética depende de conhecimentos técnicos do profissional e de seu entendimento do que é o belo por parte do portador da prótese total. Este artigo contempla estas duas abordagens — conhecer o paciente e explorar referências faciais usando a criatividade na reabilitação com Prótese Total