Comparison of marginal bone loss in mandibular overdentures supported by two solitary versus splinted mini-implants

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the marginal bone loss in mandibular mini-implant supported overdentures supported with splinted bars or solitary ball attachments. Methods: Sixteen completely edentulous patients were selected for this study aged 55 to 70 years old. Each patient received complete upper and lower dentures. The patients were randomly divided into two groups according to the type of implant in the mandible: (Group 1) Solitary two mini-implants with ball attachments, (Group 2) Splinted two mini-implants with bar. Radiographic examination of marginal bone loss was done at six months and 12 months using cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) in the buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal sites around the implants. Results: Marginal bone was not statistically significant between the two groups at six months and 12 months. Conclusion: Both modalities were acceptable for clinical use. The values of marginal bone loss were within the average values.