IMPLANT-SUPPORTED OVERDENTURES - THE LEUVEN EXPERIENCE

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.