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Purpose: The mandibular implant overdenture is a popular treatment modality and is well documented in the literature. Follow-up studies with a long observation period are difficult to perform due to the increasing age of patients. The present data summarize a long-term clinical observation of patients with implant overdentures. Materials and Methods: Between 1984 and 1997, edentulous patients were consecutively admitted for treatment with an implant overdenture. The dentures were connected to the implants by means of bars or ball anchors. Regular maintenance was provided with at least one or two scheduled visits per year. Recall attendance and reasons for dropout were analyzed based on the specific history of the patient. Denture maintenance service, relining, repair, and fabrication of new dentures were identified, and complications with the retention devices specified separately. Results: In the time period from 1984 to 2008, 147 patients with a total of 314 implants had completed a follow-up period of > 10 years. One hundred one patients were still available in 2008, while 46 patients were not reexamined for various reasons. Compliance was high, with a regular recall attendance of > 90%. More than 80% of dentures remained in continuous service. Although major prosthetic maintenance was rather low in relation to the long observation period, visits to a dental hygienist and dentist resulted in an annual visit rate of 1.5 and 2.4, respectively. If new dentures became necessary, these were made in student courses, which increased the treatment time and number of appointments needed. Complications with the retention devices consisted mostly of the mounting of new female retainers, the repair of bars, and the changing of ball anchors. The average number of events and the rate of prosthetic service with ball anchors were significantly higher than those with bars. Twenty-two patients changed from ball anchors to bars; 9 patients switched from a clip bar to a rigid U-shaped bar. Conclusions: This long-term follow-up study demonstrates that implant overdentures are a favorable solution for edentulous patients with regular maintenance. In spite of specific circumstances in an aging population, it is possible to provide long-term care, resulting in a good prognosis and low risk for this treatment modality. For various reasons the dropout rate can be considerable in elderly patients and prosthetic service must be provided regularly. Int J Prosthodont 2010;23:91-98. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze prosthetic maintenance in partially edentulous patients with removable prostheses supported by teeth and strategic implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients with removable partial prostheses and combined tooth-implant support were identified within the time period from 1998 to 2006. One group consisted of 42 patients (planned group) with a reduced residual dentition and in need of removable partial dentures (RPDs) or overdentures in the maxilla and/or mandible. They were admitted consecutively for treatment. Due to missing teeth in strategic important positions, one or two implants were placed to improve symmetrical denture support and retention. The majority of residual teeth exhibited an impaired structural integrity and therefore were provided with root copings for denture retention. A few vital teeth were used for telescopic crowns. The anchorage system for the strategic implants was selected accordingly. A second group of 18 patients (repair group) wearing RPDs with the loss of one abutment tooth due to biologic or mechanical failure was identified. These abutment teeth were replaced by 21 implants, and patients continued to wear their original prostheses. The observation time for planned and repair groups was 12 months to 8 years. All patients followed a regular maintenance schedule. Technical or biologic complications with supporting teeth or implants and prosthetic service were registered regularly. RESULTS: Three maxillary implants were lost after loading and three roots with copings had to be removed. Biologic problems included caries and periodontal/peri-implant infection with a significantly higher incidence in the repair group (P < .05). Technical complications with the dentures were rather frequent in both groups, mostly related to the anchorage system (matrices) of root copings and implants. Maintenance and complications were observed more frequently in the first year after delivery of the denture than in the following 3 years (P < .05). No denture had to be remade. CONCLUSIONS: The placement of a few implants allows for maintaining a compromised residual dentition for support of RPDs. The combination of root and implant support facilitates treatment planning and enhances designing the removable denture. It also proves to be a practical rescue method. Technical problems with the anchorage system were frequent, particularly in the first year after delivery of the dentures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case series reports on the use of nonsilica-based high-strength full ceramics for different prosthetic indications. Fifty-two consecutive patients received tooth- or implant-supported zirconia reconstructions during a 2-year period. The observation period for reexamination was 12 to 30 months. The most frequent indications were single crowns and short-span fixed partial dentures. A few implant superstructures were screw-retained, whereas all remaining restorations were cemented on natural teeth or zirconia implant abutments. Clinical examination included biologic (probing depths, bleeding on probing) and esthetic (Papilla Index) parameters, as well as technical complications. No implant was lost or caused any problems, but two teeth were lost after horizontal fracture. Overall, the periodontal parameters were favorable. Fractures of frameworks or implant abutments were not observed. Abutment-screw loosening occurred once for one premolar single crown. Furthermore, five implant crowns in the posterior region exhibited chipping of the porcelain veneering material. With regard to esthetics, no reconstructions were considered unacceptable, but three crowns were remade shortly after delivery. In this short-term study, it was observed that biologic, esthetic, and mechanical properties of zirconia were favorable, and the material could be used in various prosthetic indications on teeth or implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Two noninvasive methods to measure dental implant stability are damping capacity assessment (Periotest) and resonance frequency analysis (Osstell). The objective of the present study was to assess the correlation of these 2 techniques in clinical use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Implant stability of 213 clinically stable loaded and unloaded 1-stage implants in 65 patients was measured in triplicate by means of resonance frequency analysis and Periotest. Descriptive statistics as well as Pearson's, Spearman's, and intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated with SPSS 11.0.2. RESULTS: The mean values were 57.66 +/- 8.19 implant stability quotient for the resonance frequency analysis and -5.08 +/- 2.02 for the Periotest. The correlation of both measuring techniques was -0.64 (Pearson) and -0.65 (Spearman). The single-measure intraclass correlation coefficients for the ISQ and Periotest values were 0.99 and 0.88, respectively (95% CI). No significant correlation of implant length with either resonance frequency analysis or Periotest could be found. However, a significant correlation of implant diameter with both techniques was found (P < .005). The correlation of both measuring systems is moderate to good. It seems that the Periotest is more susceptible to clinical measurement variables than the Osstell device. The intraclass correlation indicated lower measurement precision for the Periotest technique. Additionally, the Periotest values differed more from the normal (Gaussian) curve of distribution than the ISQs. Both measurement techniques show a significant correlation to the implant diameter. CONCLUSION: Resonance frequency analysis appeared to be the more precise technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is a method of measuring implant stability. However, little is known about RFA of implants with long loading periods. The objective of the present study was to determine standard implant stability quotients (ISQs) for clinical successfully osseointegrated 1-stage implants in the edentulous mandible. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Stability measurements by means of RFA were performed in regularly followed patients who had received 1- stage implants for overdenture support. The time interval between implant placement and measurement ranged from 1 year up to 10 years. The short-term group comprised patients who were followed up to 5 years, while the long-term group included patients with an observation time of > 5 years up to 10 years. For further comparison RFA measurements were performed in a matching group with unloaded implants at the end of the surgical procedure. For statistical analysis various parameters that might influence the ISQs of loaded implants were included, and a mixed-effects model applied (regression analysis, P <.0125). RESULTS: Ninety-four patients were available with a total of 205 loaded implants, and 16 patients with 36 implants immediately after the surgical procedure. The mean ISQ of all measured implants was 64.5 +/- 7.9 (range, 58 to 72). Statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences in the mean ISQ related to the observation time. The parameters with overall statistical significance were the diameter of the implants and changes in the attachment level. In the short-term group, the gender and the clinically measured attachment level had a significant effect. Implant diameter had a significant effect in the long-term group. CONCLUSIONS: A mean ISQ of 64.5 +/- 7.9 was found to be representative for stable asymptomatic interforaminal implants measured by the RFA instrument at any given time point. No significant differences in ISQ values were found between implants with different postsurgical time intervals. Implant diameter appears to influence the ISQ of interforaminal implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: In the present cohort study, overdentures with a combined root and implant support were evaluated and compared with either exclusively root- or implant-supported overdentures. Results of a 2-year follow-up period are reported, namely survival of implants, root copings, and prostheses, plus prosthetic complications, maintenance service, and patient satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen patients were selected for the combined overdenture therapy and were compared with 2 patient groups in which either roots or implants provided overdenture support. Altogether, 14, 17, and 15 patients (in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively) were matched with regard to age, sex, treatment time, and observation period. The mean age was around 67 years. Periodontal parameters were recorded, radiographs were taken, and all complications and failures were registered during the entire observation time. The patients answered a 9-item questionnaire by means of a visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: One implant failed and 1 tooth root was removed following longitudinal root fracture. Periodontal/peri-implant parameters gave evidence of good oral hygiene for roots and implants, and slight crestal bone resorption was measured for both. Technical complications and service performed were significantly higher in the first year (P < .04) in all 3 groups and significantly higher in the tooth root group (P < .03). The results of the VAS indicated significantly lower scores for satisfaction, speaking ability, wearing comfort, and denture stability with combined or exclusive root support (P < .05 and .02, respectively). Initial costs of overdentures with combined or root support were 10% lower than for implant overdentures. CONCLUSION: The concept of combined root and implant support can be integrated into treatment planning and overdenture design for patients with a highly reduced dentition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The technique of the osteotome-mediated transcrestal sinus floor elevation is described in a series of case reports. Fifty-five patients received a total of 66 implants over a period of 6 years. Bio-Oss was added in more than 60% of cases to increase the stability of the lifted area. The surgical procedure appeared to be a safe method that was well supported by the patients. It was applied for different prosthetic indications in partially and completely edentulous situations. The survival rate of the implants during the healing phase was 98.5%, and it was 100% after loading. The patients' responses to the Summers technique were evaluated by means of short interviews and visual analog scales (VAS), and the answers were compared with those from a group of patients who had received implants in the same location during the same period but without the osteotome technique. The answers regarding pain were not different between the groups. However, significantly more patients who had received the implants by means of the osteotome technique judged the surgical procedure as highly uncomfortable. It is concluded that patients need to be well prepared for the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to assess implant survival and complications with implants and prostheses in patients exhibiting a variety of systemic diseases and congenital defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with specific medical conditions are regularly treated at the Department of Prosthodontics, University of Bern, Switzerland. All those who had received implant-prosthodontic treatment during the past 12 years were reexamined for this study. Among these patients the following diseases were observed: cleft lip/palate (n = 8), Down syndrome (n = 3), Sjogren syndrome and scleroderma (n = 2), ectodermal dysplasia (n = 4), developmental retardation (n = 2), chronic leukemia (n = 2), lichen planus (n = 1), cerebral palsy (n = 1), deaf-muteness (n = 1), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (n = 1). At the time of the treatment the mean age was 55.6 years. ITI implants had been placed according to a standard protocol with local anesthesia, except for one patient in whom full anesthesia was used. One hundred three implants were loaded and supported a total of 34 fixed or removable prostheses. All patients were appointed to a regular maintenance care program. In the context of the present study, all but 1 patient were reexamined clinically. New radiographs were obtained, and the implants and prostheses assessed. Additional information was obtained from regular records in the patients' charts. RESULTS: Three implants were lost in the healing phase, and 1 implant was replaced. Only 1 patient with 4 implants was lost from the study (she had passed away). The survival rate of the loaded implants was 100%. In 1 patient, peri-implant bony defects were detected around all 3 intraforaminal implants. The prosthetic plan was maintained in all patients, and they continued to wear the originally planned type of prosthesis. Complications included insufficient hygiene, soft tissue hyperplasia, extraction of remaining teeth, and minor maintenance or repair of the prostheses. CONCLUSIONS: So far, the mostly unknown implications and possible risks for the process of osseointegration and long-term maintenance in patients with such rare diseases and defects has resulted in a rather restricted application of implants. However, from the present results, it appears that implants can successfully be placed and maintained. This is ascribed in part to a strict maintenance care program provided by the caregivers and to a high compliance of the patients who participated in this program to perform good oral hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Studies of maxillary overdentures supported by endosseous implants often show a high implant failure rate. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate clinically and radiographically non-submerged implants supporting an overdenture in the maxilla. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-one patients were consecutively admitted for treatment. The standard procedure was to place 4 implants and to mount a U-shaped bar for overdenture connection. When the overdenture was delivered to the patients, peri-implant parameters were recorded and radiographs were taken. All patients were required to follow a maintenance care program. In the context of this study, all patients were clinically examined and the peri-implant parameters were compared. Crestal bone loss was analyzed using linear radiographic measurements. A life table analysis was applied to calculate the cumulative survival rate (CSR). RESULTS: Three implants failed in the early healing phase, and 3 patients lost 6 implants during the loading period. The 5-year CSR of all implants was 94.2%. The peri-implant parameters gave evidence of healthy soft tissues and good oral hygiene. The increases in probing depths and attachment loss were significant (P < .05). The mean marginal crestal bone loss was about 0.7 mm and was statistically significant at mesial and distal sites (P < .001). DISCUSSION: The correlation between clinical attachment loss and crestal bone loss was not significant. Pronounced marginal bone loss was found around some implants. CONCLUSION: In planned maxillary overdenture treatment, it is possible to achieve a satisfactory survival rate of the implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventeen mostly elderly patients, 13 men and 4 women, were consecutively admitted for implant-prosthodontic treatment after they had undergone resection of malignant tumors in the oral cavity. A total of 53 dental implants (ITI-Straumann) was placed, 12 in the maxilla, 41 in the mandible. The prosthetic rehabilitation consisted of overdenture therapy in 15 patients, and 2 patients were treated with fixed partial prostheses. Thirty-three implants were prescribed for patients who received radiotherapy either before or after implant placement. The average dose varied between 50 and 74 Gy. Eighteen implants were located in grafted bone from the fibula, scapula, or hip. For 2 patients, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was also prescribed after osteoradionecrosis had developed. One implant was lost before prosthetic loading. During an observation period of up to 7 years after loading, 3 more implants were removed. All implant losses occurred in the mandibles of patients who had received radiotherapy. A life table analysis was performed, and the cumulative survival rates, calculated for 2, 3, and 5 years, were 93%, 90%, and 90% respectively. No failures or complications were observed with technical components of the implants or prostheses. All prostheses could be maintained during the entire observation time. Although in the present investigation the survival rate of implants was slightly lower than under standard conditions, the treatment with implant-supported prostheses seemed to be advantageous for patients who had undergone intraoral resections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this randomized split-mouth clinical trial was to determine the active tactile sensibility between singe-tooth implants and opposing natural teeth and to compare it with the tactile sensibility of pairs of natural teeth on the contralateral side in the same mouth (intraindividual comparison). The null hypothesis was that the active tactile sensibilities of the implant side and control side are equivalent. Sixty-two subjects (n = 36 from Bonn, Germany; n = 26 from Bern, Switzerland) with single-tooth implants (22 anterior and 40 posterior) were asked to bite down on narrow copper foil strips varying in thickness (5 to 200 µm) and to decide whether or not they were able to identify a foreign body between their teeth. In the anterior region (incisors and canines), the tactile tests were performed in the incisal-edge-to-incisal-edge position; in the posterior region (premolars and molars), they were performed in maximum intercuspation of the mandible. The foreign bodies placed between the teeth consisted of copper foils that were about 3 mm wide with varying thickness. Active tactile sensibility was defined as the 50% threshold of correct answers estimated by means of the Weibull distribution. The results obtained for the interocclusal perception sensibility differed between subjects far more than they differed between natural teeth and implants in the same individual (implant/natural tooth: 16.7 ± 11.3 µm [0.6 to 53.1 µm); natural tooth/natural tooth: 14.3 ± 10.6 µm [0.5 to 68.2 µm]). The intraindividual differences only amounted to a mean value of 2.4 ± 9.4 µm (-15.1 to 27.5 µm). The result of the statistical calculations showed that the active tactile sensibility of single-tooth implants, both in the anterior and posterior regions, in combination with a natural opposing tooth is similar to that of pairs of opposing natural teeth (double ttest, equivalence margin: ±8 µm, P < .001, power > 80%). Hence, the implants could be integrated in the stomatognathic control circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "In Vivo Force Measurements on Maxillary Implants Supporting a Fixed Prosthesis or an Overdenture: A Pilot Study," by K. Mericske-Stern, E. Venetz, F. Fahrender, and W. Bürgin, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The concept of platform switching is widely applied in current implant dentistry; however, the influence on peri-implant bone-level alterations (ΔIBL), especially in the field of implant overdentures (IODs), remains inconclusive. Therefore, the present study aimed to test the alternative hypothesis that there is an equivalent ΔIBLs at platform-switching and platform-matching implant abutments in 2-implant bar-retained IODs., Materials and Methods: Two interforaminal implants were placed in 32 subjects, who were randomly assigned to either an immediate- or a 3-month post-placement loading group. Furthermore, one implant in each subject was randomly assigned to receive a platform-switched abutment (test), and one a platform-matching abutment (control). The implants were splinted with prefabricated, chairside customized bars. ΔIBL was recorded by using customized radiograph holders at implant placement, implant loading, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after loading., Results: After 1 year, equivalent ΔIBL could be identified (test: -0.51 mm ± 0.49 versus control: -0.56 mm ± 0.52; p < .001). ΔIBL increased over time and was more pronounced in the delayed-loaded implants (-0.87 mm ± 0.61) relative to the immediately loaded implants (-0.35 mm ± 0.43; p = .022)., Conclusions: The prosthetic concept of platform switching does not necessarily lead to reduced bone loss. Immediate-loading of implants, primarily splinted with a bar, might be beneficial regarding peri-implant bone-level alterations over a short-term period., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)