Digital wear analysis and retention of poly-ether-ether-ketone retentive inserts versus conventional nylon inserts in locator retained mandibular overdentures: in-vitro study.

OBJECTIVE: this study aimed to digitally compare wear behavior and retention between PEEK and nylon retentive inserts used in locator-retained, mandibular implant overdentures when attachment design and size were standardized. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of sixty-four inserts (32 PEEK and 32 nylon inserts); were picked-up in implant overdentures. Overdentures of both groups were submerged in artificial saliva and mounted to chewing simulator. After 480,000 chewing cycles (equivalent to 2 years of clinical use) all inserts were scanned by scanning electron microscope (SEM), then all acquired images were digitally analyzed by software to detect and compare quantitative and qualitative changes of inserts in both groups. On the other hand, retention of both groups was measured by universal testing machine and the collected data was statistically analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test with significance level set at P ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: PEEK inserts showed significantly higher mean retentive values compared to the nylon inserts in the control group. Also, PEEK retentive inserts exhibited statistically lower mean wear values than the control group P ≥ 0.000. Qualitative investigation revealed significant and more pronounced changes in the surface roughness of nylon inserts compared to PEEK ones. CONCLUSIONS: Regarding retention, wear behavior and dimension stability, PEEK can be recommended as retentive insert material in cases of locator-retained mandibular implant overdentures. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: PEEK inserts offer enhanced retention, reduced wear, and greater dimensional stability over two years time interval. Clinically, this reduces prosthodontic maintenance and adjustments, improving patient satisfaction and long-term prosthetic success.

Influence of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy as implant materials on implant stability of maxillary implant retained overdenture: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Long-term success of implant restoration depends on many factors one of them is the sufficient implant stability which is lowered in compromised bone density sites such as the maxilla as it is categorized as type III & IV bone, so searching for a new innovation and updates in implant material and features is very mandatory. So, the aim of this study was to compare between two implant materials (roxolid and traditional titanium) on the primary and secondary stability of implant retained maxillary overdenture. METHODS: Eighteen completely edentulous patients were selected. All patients received maxillary implant-retained overdentures and lower complete dentures; patients were divided equally into two groups according to the type of implant materials. Group A received a total number of 36 implants made of roxolid material and Group B received a total number of 36 implants made of traditional titanium alloys. Implant stability was assessed using ostell device, the primary implant stability was measured at the day of implant installation however, secondary implant stability was measured after six weeks of implant placement. Paired t-test was used to compare between primary and secondary stability in the same group and an independent t-test was used to compare between the two groups with a significant level < 0.05. RESULTS: Independent t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups with p -value = 0.0141 regarding primary stability and p-value < 0.001 regarding secondary stability, as roxolid implant group was statistically higher stability than titanium group in both. Paired t- test showed a statistically significant difference in roxolid implant group with p-value = 0.0122 however, there was non-statistically significant difference in titanium group with p-value = 0.636. Mann Whitney test showed a significant difference between the two groups regarding amount of change in stability with p value = 0.191. roxolid implant group showed a higher amount of change in stability than the titanium implant group. CONCLUSION: Within the limitation of this study, it could be concluded that: Roxolid implants showed promising results regarding primary and secondary stability compared to conventional Titanium implants and can be a better alternative in implant retained maxillary overdentures. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Retrospectively NCT06334770 at 26-3-2024.

Longevity of acrylic and cobalt-chromium removable partial dentures-A ten-year retrospective survival analysis of 1246 denture-wearing patients.

OBJECTIVES: to assess the survival rates of removable partial dentures (RPDs) and identify factors impacting their longevity. METHODS: electronic health records were retrieved of patients aged ≥18 who received RPDs between 2010 - 2021 with a follow-up of ≥ three months. Data extracted included demographics, medical history, dental charting, periodontal screening and recording scores, prostheses details and related interventions, including new dentures/denture remakes, and maintenance. Multivariate Mixed-Effect Cox regression was performed to identify potential RPD survival risk factors. Reduced model selection was reached using a backward step-down by comparing the performance of these multivariable models using the ANOVA test. RESULTS: 1893 RPDs from 1246 patients were included, with a median follow-up of 21.8 months (range from 3 to 131.3 months). Three hundred and twelve patients received a maxillary RPD, 460 received a mandibular RPD, and the remaining 474 patients received both maxillary and mandibular RPDs. Metal-based RPDs had a median survival of 73 months (95%CI: 70 - 82) versus 45 months (95% CI: 37-67) for acrylic ones. Multivariable mixed effects Cox model showed that the lifespans of RPDs were longer amongst patients receiving more maintenance care within three months [Hazards Ratio (HR)=0.89 (0.83, 0.96)] and after three months [HR=0.53 (0.46, 0.61)] of denture delivery, patients wearing both maxillary and mandibular RPDs [HR=0.67 (0.52, 0.87)], and patients receiving metal-based RPDs [HR=0.31 (0.23, 0.42)]. CONCLUSIONS: Metal-based dentures, dual arch restoration, and increased maintenance positively impact the survival of RPDs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Adapting consent and warranty practices is advised to reflect RPD performance variations.

Assessment of occlusion changes during laboratory phase of relining: An in vitro study.

AIM: Assessment of occlusion changes during laboratory phase of relining is essential to evaluate the occlusal discrepancies that could get incorporated in the denture with the use of different relining materials. Since the long term stability and functional success of the denture is heavily influenced by occlusion, an In-vitro study to assess these changes after relining is warranted. The aim of the study is to evaluate the changes in occlusion during laboratory phase of relining procedure. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This is an in vitro study with a total of 30 specimen. MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY: A total of 30 maxillary standardized dentures were fabricated after mounting on a semi adjustable articulator. These samples will be divided into three groups based on the relining material used (Autopolymerizing resin, Heat-cure resin, Tissue conditioner). The vertical dimension, Centric contact points and eccentric contact points were measured before and after relining. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The variables were tested to see if they had a normal distribution using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Parametric distribution was seen for ECP leading to further comparison using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Non-parametric distribution was found while testing the VD, CCP leading to adoption of Kruskal-wallis test for comparison of groups. Dunn Bonferroni test was done for VD since results were significant. RESULTS: The results of this in-vitro study showed statistically significant difference with respect to change in vertical dimension in all groups pre and post relining (P = 0.005). The centric contact points showed lesser variation in position when comparing the pre to the post relining phase with the use of autopolymerising resins, whereas heat cure resins and tissue conditioners showed statistically significant difference in the centric point contacts post relining. No statistically significant changes were seen in eccentric occlusion post relining in all groups. Tissue conditioners showed minimum mean changes in eccentric contacts. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the use of autopolymerising resins depicted the most stable results with respect to occlusion, for relining of dentures.

Posterior two-unit cantilevered zirconia resin-bonded fixed partial dentures: A 3-year prospective single-arm clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the longevity of cantilevered zirconia-based resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPDs) in replacing missing posterior teeth, as well as the quality of life and patient satisfaction experienced by those receiving zirconia RBFPDs. METHODS: A prospective single-arm uncontrolled clinical trial was conducted to replace one or more missing premolars or molars with a span of 5 to 8 mm using cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs. Thirty-six participants with 40 prostheses were recruited and underwent a 3-year clinical evaluation. The retainer designs included a minimum thickness of 0.8 mm, a minimum of 200° circumferential wraparound with an occlusal bar, and a connector dimension of 3 × 3 mm. Patient-reported outcomes, including patient satisfaction and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP), were assessed. RESULTS: The average age of participants was 45.8 years, and 72.5 % were women. The success rate of the posterior zirconia RBFPDs was 76.2 %, with an estimated mean success duration of 46.1 months. The survival rate was 88.1 %, with an estimated mean survival duration of 49.4 months. Participants were highly satisfied with the treatment, achieving an average satisfaction score of 80.8 ± 11.9. Participants' total OHIP scores decreased from 52.3 to 39.6 after 3 years, indicating a significant improvement in oral health-related quality of life (P = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS: After 3 years, a moderately high survival rate and favourable patient-reported outcomes of posterior cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs were achieved. Therefore, it can be recommended as a conservative treatment option to replace missing posterior teeth, provided that retainer design considerations are taken into account. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Cantilevered zirconia RBFPDs for posterior teeth can serve as a conservative treatment option that is both aesthetically pleasing and biocompatible. It offers a more cost-effective alternative compared to dental implants, which are often prohibitively expensive for the majority of patients. This approach has the potential to greatly improve patient-reported outcomes.

Retention of Mandibular Complete Overdentures using Mini Dental Implants (Ø < 3 mm) and Standard Diameter Implants (Ø > 3mm): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

PURPOSE: The objective of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which assessed the efficacy of mini dental implants (MDIs) and standard-diameter implants (SDIs) in retaining mandibular overdentures (MO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The focused question was "Is there a difference in the mechanical stability between MDIs and SDIs in retaining MO?" Indexed databases were searched up to and including November 2023 using different keywords. Boolean operators were used during the search. The literature was searched in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The PICO characteristics were: patients (P) = individuals with complete mandibular dentures requiring dental implants; Intervention (I) = placement of MDIs under mandibular dentures; Control (C) = placement of SDIs under mandibular dentures; Outcome (O) = comparison of stability between MDIs and SDIs in supporting mandibular dentures. Only RCTs were included. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane RoB tool. RESULTS: Five RCTs were included. The numbers of participants ranged between 45 and 120 edentulous individuals wearing complete mandibular dentures. The mean age of patients ranged between 59.5 ± 8.5 and 68.3 ± 8.5 years. The number of MDIs and SDIs ranged between 22 and 152 and 10 and 80 implants, respectively. The follow-up duration ranged between one week and 12 months. Three RCTs reported an improvement in the quality of life (QoL) of all patients after stabilisation of mandibular dentures using MDIs or SDIs. In one RCT, peri-implant soft tissue profiles were comparable between MDIs and SDIs at the 1-year follow-up. The implant survival rate was reported in two RCTs, which were from 89% to 98% and 99% to 100% for MDIs and SDIs, respectively. All RCTs had a low RoB. CONCLUSION: Mini dental implants represent a viable alternative to traditional standard-diameter implants when seeking optimal retention for mandibular overdentures.

Effectiveness of commercially available denture adhesives on retention of mandibular complete denture in resorbed mandibular ridge: an in vitro study / Efectividad de los adhesivos disponibles comercialmente sobre la retención de prótesis removibles completas mandibulares en el reborde mandibular reabsorbido: un estudio in vitro

Background: Denture adhesives are alternatives used to improve retention, stability, comfort and satisfaction in patients with complete dentures. Evidence on the effectiveness of denture adhesives on resorbed mandibular ridges is scarce. Among the many commercially available denture adhesives, the ideal material for the severely resorbed mandibular ridge remains in dispute. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of different quantities of four commercially available denture adhesives on the retention of mandibular complete dentures in severely resorbed ridges. Materials and Methods: A resorbed edentulous mandibular ridge model was manufactured in acrylic resin. A denture base was made and three loops were attached to it. Four commercially available denture adhesives (Fixodent, Perlie White, Fiftydent and Polident) were tested in amounts of 0.2 g, 0.4 g, 0.6 g, 0.8 g and 1.0 g. The acrylic resin model was evenly moistened with 1 ml of water and a weighted amount of adhesive material was applied to the denture base. The universal testing machine engaged the loops fixed on the denture base and applied the vertical displacement force. The maximum vertical displacement force values were recorded for each denture adhesive material at different amounts. Statistical calculation was performed using Kruskal Wallis with Bonferroni post hoc correction. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in the mean values of the vertical displacement force for adhesive amounts of 0.2 g, 0.4 g, 0.6 g and 1.0 g (p<0.05) between the four adhesive materials tested. Statistically significant differences were observed when four denture adhesives were compared to each other in different amounts (p<0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed between different amounts for each of four denture adhesives (p<0.05). Conclusions: Among the four materials tested, Polident showed greater effectiveness at 0.6 g and 0.8 g, Fittydent at 0.6 g, 0.8 g and 1 g, Fixodent at 0.4 g and 0.6 g and Perlie White at 1 g and 0.8g quantity to resist vertical displacement. forces on the severely resorbed mandibular crest. Using an appropriate amount of denture adhesive allows for proper retention of the denture; Replacement of this adhesive is necessary once a day.

Introducción: Los adhesivos para prótesis dentales son alternativas utilizadas para mejorar la retención, la estabilidad, la comodidad y la satisfacción en los pacientes con prótesis completas. La evidencia sobre la efectividad de los adhesivos para prótesis dentales en los rebordes mandibulares reabsorbidos es escasa. Entre los muchos adhesivos para prótesis dentales disponibles comercialmente, sigue estando en disputa cuál es el material ideal para el reborde mandibular severamente reabsorbido. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la efectividad de diferentes cantidades de cuatro adhesivos para prótesis dentales disponibles comercialmente sobre la retención de prótesis dentales completas mandibulares en reborde mandibular reabsorbido severamente. Materiales y Métodos: Se fabricó un modelo de reborde mandibular edéntulo reabsorbido en resina acrílica. Se hizo una base para la prótesis y se le colocaron tres bucles. Se probaron cuatro adhesivos para dentaduras postizas disponibles comercialmente (Fixodent, Perlie White, Fiftydent y Polident) en cantidades de 0,2 g, 0,4 g, 0,6 g, 0,8 g y 1,0 g. El modelo de resina acrílica se humedeció uniformemente con 1 ml de agua y se aplicó la cantidad correspondiente de material adhesivo sobre la base de la dentadura. La máquina de prueba universal enganchó los bucles fijados en la base de la dentadura postiza y aplicó la fuerza de desplazamiento vertical. Se registraron los valores máximos de fuerza de desplazamiento vertical para cada material adhesivo para dentaduras postizas en diferentes cantidades. El cálculo estadístico se realizó utilizando Kruskal Wallis con corrección post hoc de Bonferroni. Resultado: Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en los valores medios de la fuerza de desplazamiento vertical para cantidades de 0,2 g, 0,4 g, 0,6 g y 1,0 g (p<0,05) entre los cuatro materiales adhesivos para prótesis dentales probados. Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas cuando se compararon cuatro adhesivos para prótesis dentales entre sí en diferentes cantidades (p<0,05). Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre diferentes cantidades en los cuatro adhesivos para prótesis (p<0,05). Conclusión: De los cuatro materiales probados, Polident mostró mayor efectividad a 0,6 g y 0,8 g, Fittydent a 0,6 g, 0,8 g y 1 g, Fixodent a 0,4 g y 0,6 g y Perlie White a 1 g y 0,8 g para resistir fuerzas de desplazamiento vertical en la cresta mandibular severamente reabsorbida. El uso de una cantidad adecuada de adhesivo para dentaduras postizas permite una retención adecuada de la dentadura postiza; El reemplazo de este adhesivo es necesario una vez al día.

Changes in masticatory performance and bite force after treatment with mandibular overdentures retained by four titanium-zirconium mini implants: One-year randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This prospective study is part of a randomised clinical trial and reports the changes in masticatory performance (MP) and bite force, and explores their influential factors, 1 year after the provision of mandibular overdentures retained by four titanium-zirconium mini implants. METHODS: Edentulous patients received conventional complete dentures, followed by placement of four mini implants (Straumann® Mini Implant System) in the anterior mandible and converting the conventional prosthesis into a mandibular overdenture. Treatment protocols were randomised using a 2×2 factorial design combining different surgical (flapped vs. flapless) and loading (immediate vs. delayed) protocols. MP was assessed using a two-colour mixing ability test and a colorimetric analysis to measure the level of colour mixing (Variance of Hue-VoH). Maximum voluntary bite force (MBF) was measured by a digital gnathodynamometer in the posterior and anterior regions. Sex, age, surgical and loading protocols and ridge morphology were tested as independent variables. MP and MBF tests were performed at baseline (pre-treatment) and the 3-, 6- and 12-month after implant loading. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test, and linear mixed-effect model (LMM) regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Seventy-four participants were assessed and 73 completed the 1-year follow-up. Statistically significant improvements in functional parameters were observed in all follow-up periods compared to baseline (p < .001). The flapless protocol was associated with higher improvement in MP at the 3-month follow-up (p = .004), while less resorbed ridges were associated with better MP (p = .038) and higher MBF (p < .001). CONCLUSION: The mandibular overdenture protocol using four titanium-zirconium mini implants was effective in improving MP and MBF of edentulous patients, compared to pre-treatment values. The findings also suggest that improvements in chewing function and bite force are impacted by clinical factors since better outcomes were observed for flapless surgeries and less resorbed edentulous ridges. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.Gov ID NCT04760457.

Clinical and radiographic outcomes around 4 mandibular implant-retained overdentures in individuals with type 2 diabetes: A long-term retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES: To report the implant survival rates, clinical, and radiographic status after a period of more than 5 years in the function of 4 inter-foraminal implants retaining mandibular overdentures (OVDs) in individuals with T2DM. METHODS: 78 completely edentulous participants with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) who had worn mandibular OVDs retained by 4 inter-foraminal implants for long-term functional life were selected for this study. The participants were divided into 2 groups according to glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels before implant placement: group I with an HbA1c value > 6.5 % (inadequately controlled T2DM), and group II with an HbA1c value ≤6.5 % (well-controlled T2DM). The inadequately controlled T2DM was further subdivided into 2 groups: Group IA with an HbA1c value > 6.5 % and ≤8 % (moderately controlled), and Group IB has an HbA1c value > 8 % (poorly controlled). Implant survival rate, plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), and radiographic crestal bone level (CBL) around implants were measured. RESULTS: Among 312 implants, 6 failed, 4 in well-controlled diabetics, and 2 in inadequately controlled diabetics. The overall survival rate was 98.07 %. The mean PI in group Ι was 36.4 (group IA =37.76, group IB = 34.27), and in group ΙΙ it was 19. The mean BOP in group Ι was 45.5 (group IA =47.84, group IB = 41.76), and in group ΙΙ it was 22. The mean PD in group Ι was 4.1 (group IA =4.3, group IB = 3.85) and in group ΙΙ was 2.2. The mean radiographic CBL in group Ι was 3.4 (group IA =3.7, group IB = 2.9), and in group ΙΙ was 1.5. Group IA exhibited a significantly greater level of PI, BOP, PD, and CBL compared to group IB and group IΙ (P1=0.017, P2=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with T2DM can benefit from 4 inter-foraminal implants retained mandibular OVDs, and their inability to maintain proper glucose control may not exclude implant success. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study is a significant step toward improving knowledge of options available for treatment and anticipated outcomes for T2DM completely edentulous populations undergoing implant therapy.

Implant-Supported, Bar-Retained Maxillary Overdenture and Mandibular Implant-Supported, Metal-Acrylic Resin, Screw-Retained, Fixed Complete Denture on an Edentulous Patient: Case Report.

Most edentulous patients prefer fixed restoration or detachable prostheses over conventional complete dentures. The case report aims to address and discuss the clinical and laboratory steps of implant-supported, bar-retained maxillary overdenture and mandibular implant-supported, metal-acrylic resin, screw-retained, fixed complete denture. Impression techniques and laboratory steps are discussed and demonstrated to minimize the postfabrication or insertion complication. It lets you achieve the passive fit of the prosthesis that maintains the osseointegration by reducing stress on implants and the surrounding bone.

Evaluation of open-face maxillary complete denture for patients with prominent premaxilla: a crossover study.

BACKGROUND: The establishment of good facial esthetics is one of the main objectives of complete denture construction. Unfortunately, it may be the caused issue for patients having a prominent premaxilla due to excessive lip support by the labial flange of the maxillary denture. Open-face dentures (OFD) may suggest suitable prosthetic management for these patients. However, clinical evidence regarding the efficiency of OFD is scarce. METHODS: A total of 38 completely edentulous participants having prominent premaxilla and skeletal class I Angle's classification were enrolled in this study. Each participant received a mandibular complete denture and 2 opposing maxillary dentures; conventional (CD) and open-face (OFD). On the day of denture insertion, the participants were divided into 2 groups; CD-OFD and OFD-CD where CD-OFD group was instructed to use the mandibular denture and the maxillary CD for 3 months and then to use the maxillary OFD for another 3 months after a wash-out period of 2 weeks. While group OFD-CD was instructed to use the mandibular denture and the maxillary OFD for 3 months then to use the maxillary CD for another 3 months after a wash-out period of 2 weeks. The dislodging force of the maxillary dentures was evaluated using the universal testing machine and the patient perception of retention, esthetics, and comfort was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Evaluation was carried out 1 day, 1 month, and 3 months after denture insertion. The Student t-test was used to compare the 2 maxillary dentures and the intervals for each denture were compared by using the ANOVA test with repeated measures followed by a Post Hoc test (adjusted Bonferroni) for pairwise comparison. RESULTS: The significance of the obtained results was judged at the 5% level (P value). The dislodging force and patient perception of retention did not show significant differences between the 2 dentures, while the perception of esthetics showed significant differences throughout the follow-up period. Perception of comfort showed an insignificant difference only at the 3-month interval. CONCLUSIONS: Open-face maxillary dentures can be a suitable alternative for patients with prominent premaxilla to achieve satisfactory retention, aesthetics, and comfort.

Retention and fatigue performance of modified polyetheretherketone clasps for removable prosthesis.

PURPOSE: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is considered as an alternative to metal material for removable partial denture (RPD). However, the retentive force is not strong as a metal RPD. This study investigated the retention and fatigue performance of PEEK clasps with different proportions of clasp arm engaging the undercut to verify a new strategy to improve their clinical performance. METHODS: Three groups (n = 10/group) of PEEK clasps with their terminal 1/3, 2/3 and the whole of retentive arms engaging the undercut were fabricated along with a group (n = 10) of conventional cobalt-chrome (CoCr) clasps as control group. Retentive forces were measured by universal testing machine initially and at an interval of 1500 cycles for a total of 15,000 fatigue cycles. The fatigue cycles were conducted by repeated insertion and removal of the clasp using fatigue testing machine. Each clasp was scanned by Trios3 scanner before and after fatigue test to obtain digital models. The deformation of the clasp was evaluated by root mean square (RMS) through aligning the two models in Geomagic wrap (2021). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and finite element analysis were carried out to observe the abrasion and the von Mises stress of the clasp arm. Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare the retentive forces and the RMSs of the studied groups followed by Bonferroni multiple comparisons. RESULTS: The whole of PEEK clasp arm engaging the undercut provided higher mean retentive forces (7.99 ± 2.02 N) than other PEEK clasp groups (P < 0.001) and was closer to CoCr clasps (11.88 ± 2.05 N). The RMSs of PEEK clasps were lower than CoCr clasps (P < 0.05) while the differences among PEEK clasps were of no statistical significance (P > 0.05). SEM showed that evidences of surface abrasion were observed on the section that engaged the undercut for all groups of clasps. The stress concentration mainly occurred on the initial part of the retentive arm. The maximum von Mises stress of each group was below the compressive strength of PEEK. CONCLUSIONS: Proportions of PEEK clasp arm engaging the undercut positively influenced the retentive force and the fatigue resistance of PEEK clasps was superior than CoCr clasps. It is a feasible method to improve the retention of PEEK clasps by increasing the proportion of clasp arm engaging the undercut. Clinical trials are needed to further verify this innovation.

Marginal bone loss in ball versus locator attachments in implant-retained overdentures: systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review compares the impact of ball and locator attachments on marginal bone loss in implant-retained overdentures in completely edentulous patients. METHOD AND MATERIALS: Following PRISMA guidelines, health science librarians completed literature searches from inception to 17 March 2023 in seven databases. There were 15,686 items exported to EndNote from Embase.com, CINAHL (EBSCO), Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE-ALL, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Hand-searching added four more articles. After deduplication, 6,756 items were screened for eligibility. Twenty-nine studies were assessed by full text, of which ten studies, involving 424 subjects, were included in the review. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A meta-analysis was performed to synthesize and analyze the collective data from the selected studies. RESULTS: The included studies used diverse methodologies, implant systems, and loading protocols. Most studies reported no significant difference in marginal bone loss between ball and locator attachments. The meta-analysis revealed high heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: The results of this systematic review suggest that ball and locator attachments exhibit similar performance in terms of marginal bone loss in implant-retained overdentures. However, the limited number, risk of bias, and heterogeneity of studies highlight the need for standardized research designs and larger sample sizes in future investigations to draw more definitive conclusions.

[Evaluation of the 5-year clinical restoration effect of implants retained complete overdentures with Locator attachments in 48 patients].

PURPOSE: To observe the long-term clinical effect of implants retained complete overdentures with Locator attachments. METHODS: A total of 48 patients with edentulous jaws treated with implants retained complete overdentures with Locator attachments were selected from the Outpatient Department of Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from 2016 to 2017. Among them, 21 patients underwent double-maxillary complete overdentures restoration and 27 patients underwent single-maxillary restoration. A total of 230 implants were implanted. The clinical observation indicators included the implant survival rate, peri-implant mucosal bleeding on probing(BOP), the change in the vertical height of alveolar bone absorption around the implants, overdenture base fracture rate, artificial tooth fall off and fracture rate and other complications. The change of the locator attachment retention force of the implant-supported overdentures was evaluated. SPSS 13.0 software package was used for data analysis. RESULTS: During the five-years clinical observation period, 5 implants fell off, 1 narrow dimeter implant in the anterior zone was broken, and 12 implants were lost to follow-up. The implant survival rate was 97.25%. One year after the restoration therapy finished, peri-implant mucosal bleeding on probing (BOP+) was detected in 48 (21.4%) implants. The average BI was 0.21±0.42, which was higher in the anterior zone than that in the posterior zone. The vertical alveolar bone absorption height around the implants was (0.21±0.35) mm, 2 implants-supported complete overdenture bases were broken. After 5 years of restoration, 163(76.89%) implants had peri-implant mucosal bleeding on probing(BOP+). The average BI was 1.00±0.70, and the vertical alveolar bone absorption height around the implants was (0.58±0.85) mm. There was no significant difference between males and females. There was no significant difference in the peri-implant mucosal bleeding index and the alveolar bone vertical absorption height between the anterior zone and the posterior zone(P＞0.05). The mean BI of peri-implant mucosa and the vertical absorption height of peri-implant alveolar bone were significantly different between the 1-year observation period and the 5-year observation period respectively(P＜0.01). There were 17(26.15%) cases with overdenture bases fracture, and the fracture rate of artificial teeth was 16.92%. Most of them occurred in the midline area of the anterior zone and the location of the overdenture base on the locator attachments. The average first replacement time of the locator attachment nylon retainer washer was 34.2±10.3 months. CONCLUSIONS: Implants retained complete overdentures with Locator attachments are effective in long term clinical observation. Complications are mainly found in peri-implant mucosal bleeding on probing and vertical alveolar bone absorption, and tended to increase gradually over time. The fracture of the implant retains complete overdenture bases and the fall off or fracture of the artificial teeth are the second serious complications. Overdenture base with metal frame at the location of the Locator abutment and the midline of the anterior area should be strengthened, and narrow diameter implants should be avoided as far as possible in the anterior zone.

Influence of implant distribution on the biomechanical behaviors of mandibular implant-retained overdentures: a three-dimensional finite element analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess stress distribution in peri-implant bone and attachments of mandibular overdentures retained by small diameter implants, and to explore the impact of implant distribution on denture stability. METHODS: Through three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis (3D FEA), four models were established: three models of a two mandibular implants retained overdenture (IOD) and one model of a conventional complete denture (CD). The three IOD models consisted of one with two implants in the bilateral canine area, another with implants in the bilateral lateral incisor area, and the third with one implant in the canine area, and another in the lateral incisor area. Three types of loads were applied on the overdenture for each model: a 100 N vertical load and a inclined load on the left first molar, and a100N vertical load on the lower incisors. The stress distribution in the peri-implant bone, attachments, and the biomechanical behaviors of the overdentures were analyzed. RESULTS: Despite different distribution of implants, the maximum stress values in peri-implant bone remained within the physiological threshold for all models across three loading conditions. The dispersed implant distribution design (implant in the canine area) exhibited the highest maximum stress in peri-implant bone (822.8 µe) and the attachments (275 MPa) among the three IOD models. The CD model demonstrated highest peak pressure on mucosa under three loading conditions (0.8188 Mpa). The contact area between the denture and mucosa of the CD model was smaller than that in the IOD models under molar loading, yet it was larger in the CD model compared to the IOD model under anterior loading. However, the contact area between the denture and mucosa under anterior loading in all models was significantly smaller than those under molar loading. The IOD in all three models exhibited significantly less rotational movement than the complete denture. Different implant positions had minimal impact on the rotational movement of the IOD. CONCLUSION: IOD with implants in canine area exhibited the highest maximum stress in the peri-implant bone and attachments, and demonstrated increased rotational movement. The maximum principal stress was concentrated around the neck of the small diameter one-piece implant, rather than in the abutment. An overdenture retained by two implants showed better stability than a complete denture.

The influence of oral cavity physiological parameters: temperature, pH, and swelling on the performance of denture adhesives - in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The various physical and chemical conditions within the oral cavity are hypothesized to have a significant influence on the behavior of denture adhesives and therefore the overall comfort of denture wearers. As such, this study aims to understand the influence of oral cavity physiological parameters such as temperature (17 to 52 °C), pH (2, 7, 10), and denture adhesive swelling due to saliva (20-120%) on the behavior of denture adhesives. This study further aims to emphasize the need for a collective approach to modelling the in-situ behavior of denture adhesives. METHODS: Rheological measurements were carried out using the Super Polygrip Ultra fresh brand denture adhesive cream to evaluate its storage modulus (G´) and loss modulus (G´´) values at a range of physiologically relevant temperatures, pH values, and degrees of swelling, to represent and characterize the wide variety of conditions that occur within the oral cavity. RESULTS: Rheological data was recorded with respect to variation of temperature, pH, and swelling. Overall, it can be seen that the physiological conditions of the oral cavity have an influence on the rheological properties of the denture adhesive cream. Specifically, our data indicates that the adhesive's mechanical properties are weakly influenced by pH, but do change with respect to the temperature in the oral cavity and the swelling rate of the adhesive. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the collective inter-play of the parameters pH, temperature and swelling ratio have an influence on the behavior of the denture adhesive. The results clearly highlight the need for developing a multi-parameter viscoelastic material model to understand the collective influence of physiological parameters on the performance of denture adhesives. Multi-parameter models can also potentially be utilized in numerically simulating denture adhesives using finite element simulations.

In vitro study of optimal removable partial denture clasp design made from novel high-performance polyetherketoneketone.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the retentive force and deformation of double Akers' polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) clasps on removable partial dentures (RPDs) with varying designs and undercut depths. METHODS: Thirty double Akers' PEKK clasps with two different widths and heights (Groups I and II) were fabricated using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Each design was further subdivided (n = 5) into three undercut depths (0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 mm). The retentive force of the clasps was measured after 10 years of clinical use (15,000 insertion/removal cycles), and the deformation of the clasp tips was analyzed before and after cycling. RESULTS: Clasps with 0.50-mm and 0.75-mm undercut depths exhibited greater initial retentive forces (3.15-3.51 N) compared to those in the 0.25-mm undercut group (2.40-2.80 N). Group I maintained consistent retentive forces over the cycles (P = 0.345), whereas Group II showed declining forces after the initial use (P < 0.003). In both groups, the 0.50-mm undercut exhibited a greater retentive force than the 0.25-mm (P < 0.001 and P < 0.004, respectively), with no significant differences between the 0.50-mm and 0.75-mm undercut depths. Despite a lower initial retentive force, the 0.25-mm undercut showed less deformation and clasp tip wear. CONCLUSIONS: The PEKK clasps did not exhibit significantly reduced retentive forces or permanent deformations after 15,000 fatigue cycles. These results suggest that the PEKK polymer displays superior mechanical properties as an esthetic clasp material, and clasps with 0.50-mm and 0.75-mm undercut depths are recommended for long-term clinical use.

Effect of bar designs on peri implant tissues health in implant-supported removable prostheses: a systematic review.

Different characteristics of bars (cross-sectional shape, diameter, distal extension etc.) lead to different biomechanical behavior (retention and stress) with implants and peri-implant tissues.Aim: To evaluate the impact of implant-supported removable prostheses bar designs in fully edentulous arch (in the maxilla and/or mandibula), with 4 implants or more, on the peri-implant soft and hard tissues.Two reviewers searched for observational studies, RCT and in vitro studies, published on five main databases and three from the grey literature, without restrictions on November 2023.Of the 3049 selected articles, four met the inclusion criteria. Four RCT evaluated peri-implant health tissues in full edentulous arches with 4 or 6 implants rehabilitated with implant bar overdentures. One prospective study with 5 years follow-up evaluated the success/survival rate of implants and implant bar overdentures. Overall, 261 subjects were enrolled in our systematic review with 1176 implants. Overdentures' survival rate was 100%. There was a trend that plaque indices and gingival indices were low in all of the studies, however no statistical analysis was done due to the lack of information.Due to the lack of information in the included studies, we cannot confirm if bar characteristics affect the peri-implant tissues health.

In vitro measurement of the retention force of two stud attachment systems during cyclic load.

PURPOSE: To investigate the retentive behavior of the Locator legacy and Novaloc attachment systems with different retention inserts both within and across systems under cyclic load. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three retention inserts of each system (green, yellow, and white for Novaloc; green, orange, and red inserts for extended range for legacy Locator) were tested on abutments of both systems with a sample number of 10 per force and 10,000 cycles of insertion and removal. The loading was applied in the axial direction of the abutments, which were placed in artificial saliva. The retention force was measured in each cycle. The results were compared with the manufacturer's specifications and evaluated for a simulated period of use of 10 years. Characteristic time constants were determined, and subsequently, the two systems were compared regarding their wear behavior. RESULTS: The manufacturer's specifications could only be confirmed for the green Novaloc retention insert on a Novaloc abutment (t-test: p = 0.50); for all other inserts, the baseline exceeded the manufacturer's specifications by 30%-75% (Novaloc; t-test: p < 0.001) and 75%-550% (Locator; t-test: p < 0.001). After 10,000 cycles performed, the manufacturer's specifications were confirmed on a Novaloc abutment for the white Novaloc retention insert (t-test: p = 0.86) and on a Locator abutment for the green Novaloc retention insert (t-test: p = 0.32). Both systems lost retention force during the experiment. Overall, Novaloc inserts on both abutments showed less wear (decrease to 56%-85% of initial force) and a slower decrease in retention force compared to Locator inserts (decrease to 6%-31% of initial force). CONCLUSIONS: In both systems, wear leads to a varying loss of retention; therefore, regular checks with possible replacement of the inserts are necessary in clinical use. Novaloc attachments seem to be more resistant to the loss of retention than Locator attachments. A cross-combination may be clinically useful in some cases.