Single versus two dental implants retained mandibular over dentures: comparison of function, patient satisfaction, oral health–related quality of life and success of treatment

To compare the effectiveness of prosthetic rehabilitation of edentulous patients using conventional complete dentures (CD), single median dental implant retained over dentures (SIMOD) with over dentures retained by two dental implants (TIMOD).

Thirty completely edentulous patients (fifteen each arm) presented to the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya were randomly selected for the SIMOD or TIMOD groups. Patients were initially provided with CD. Surgical implant placement and prosthetic procedures were conducted at the Faculty of Dental Sciences. Osseointergration was confirmed, healing caps and then ball attachments were fixed on the implants. Clinical outcome was assessed by clinician, patient, and oral health related quality of life (OHRQOL) using OHIP-14 scale. Data were analyzed using Minitab P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant level.

Patient comfort, esthetics, chewing, speech, general satisfaction, denture retention, stability, and support with TIMOD & SIMOD had been significantly increased than CD (p < 0.05) at 3, 6 months, and 1 year review. OHIP-14 scale showed statistically significant improved oral health related quality of life with SIMOD and TIMOD compared to CD.

SIMOD & TIMOD have improved outcome assessed by the patient and clinician and OHRQOL of the individual than CD. SIMOD can also be considered for successful management of completely edentulous patients.