Objectives: This report covers a series of three different clinical lo
ngitudinal studies on the outcome of overdenture therapy when two (man
dible) or four (maxilla) implants retaining a resilient overdenture ar
e used. Conclusions: The resilient mandibular bar-retained overdenture
on two implants is a very reliable treatment. Implant failure is low
and the stability of the implants improves over time. Marginal bone re
mains stable once the first year has passed. The applied overdenture d
esign is simple, versatile and very cost effective. In the maxilla suc
h implants do maintain their marginal bone level if splinted by means
of a rigidly cast bar and when applied in a resilient overdenture ther
apy. Correct laboratory fabrication of the prosthesis is critical to t
he success of treatment. Clinically, overdenture aftercare is limited
to renewal of used attachments. Patient satisfaction remains very posi
tive to this form of treatment. (C) 1997 Published by Elsevier Science
Ltd.