PROSTHETIC MANAGEMENT OF THE ATROPHIC MANDIBLE USING ENDOSSEOUS IMPLANTS AND OVERDENTURES - A 6 YEAR REVIEW

This paper presents the treatment results and experiences gained from a retrospective study of patients treated with the IMZ osseointegrated implant system and mandibular overdentures. Patients experiencing pro blems wearing conventional dentures were assessed by the implant team and 65 cases were treated with 154 endosseous implants placed in the e dentulous mandible. Two to four implants were placed in each case and in addition some patients have had augmentation of the mandible with h ydroxyapatite, The definitive mandibular prostheses were supported by both implants and the residual ridges. A variety of retention systems were utilised, which included different types of bar and clip, stud at tachments, and magnets. The patients have been followed up regularly a nd evaluated after periods of between one and six years. Six implants have failed over this time resulting in a success rate of over 96%. Mo st patients expressed a high degree of satisfaction with their new ove rdentures. There was, however, a considerable burden of maintenance ca re required for the patient group examined. The findings demonstrate t hat implant retained overdentures offer a highly effective means of or al rehabilitation for the atrophic mandible, restoring both oral funct ion and facial form.