Novel PEEK Retentive Elements versus Conventional Retentive Elements in Mandibular Overdentures: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background. Many patients suffer from lack of retention of conventional mandibular overdentures due to loss of clip retention over time. Computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) milled polyether ether ketone (PEEK) materials may be used for the construction of retentive housing and clips for improving retention of implant-supported overdentures. Objective. To compare retention and patient satisfaction of implant-supported mandibular overdentures retained by conventional nylon clip and metal housings for ball attachments versus PEEK clip and housings. Methods. Twenty-two participants were divided into 2 equal groups (n = 11). The conventional group received implant-supported mandibular overdentures retained by metal housings and nylon retentive elements, while the PEEK group received implant-supported mandibular overdentures retained by PEEK retentive elements and housings. The PEEK retentive elements were made using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM). The evaluation included measuring the retention by applying a gradual pulling up force by force meter and patient satisfaction with a 7-point visual analog scale (VAS) at overdenture insertion and 3, 6, and 12 months subsequently by a research interviewer. Results. The PEEK group showed statistically significantly increased retention force ( P < 0.05 ) at the time of insertion (37.6/17.79) and after 3 months (33.9/16.78), 6 months (32.7/15.97), and 12 months (31.65/13.05). The conventional group had a statistically significantly higher mean overall satisfaction ( P < 0.05 ) at the time of insertion (65/82.18). No statistically significant difference was found after 3 months (87.81/84.72). The PEEK group showed statistically significantly higher mean overall satisfaction ( P < 0.05 ) after 6 months (86.36/80.18) and 12 months (85.45/79.54). Conclusions. According to the results of this study, the PEEK retentive material provided more retention than did the conventional material and led to improved patient satisfaction. The study was registered at clinical trials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05079048).

Patient satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life for four implant‐assisted mandibular overdentures fabricated with CAD/CAM milled poly methyl methacrylate, CAD/CAM‐milled poly ether ether ketone, or conventional poly methyl methacrylate: A crossover clinical trial

“…8 The impact of reconstructive digital dentistry on patient satisfaction as well as on the patients' oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of the edentulous subjects who have undergone rehabilitation has recently been studied by a number of authors. 22,39 Relatively little information about the rehabilitation of edentulous patients using four implant-assisted mandibular overdenture with the recently developed and digitally constructed PEEK or PMMA base materials is available in the literature. Therefore, this study was developed to shed light on how these new base materials affect patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL).…”

“…38 PEEK retentive material enhanced patient satisfaction by offering greater retention than did traditional material. 39 It is important to identify patient satisfaction with overdenture base materials and to assess oral problems difference between them. Such identification may enhance denture acceptance, consequently improving patient well-being and quality of life.…”

“…Poly ether ether ketone is used as a framework material for removable dental prosthesis, 36 tooth‐implant‐supported and implant‐supported bridges 37 and denture base material for implant retained or supported overdentures to preserve the implant‐supporting structures 38 . PEEK retentive material enhanced patient satisfaction by offering greater retention than did traditional material 39 …”

Clinical Applications of Polyetheretherketone in Removable Dental Prostheses: Accuracy, Characteristics, and Performance

“…On the other hand, some clinical studies have used PEEK to help retain implant-supported overdentures. Sharaf et al [ 92 ] designed novel PEEK-retentive elements in mandibular overdentures and measured the retention and patient satisfaction compared to metal housings and nylon-retentive elements. The author stated that PEEK provided more retention than conventional materials and that it led to improved patient satisfaction.…”

Single Implant-Retained Mandibular Overdentures Reinforced With Polyether Ether Ketone and Metallic Frameworks: A Comparative Study of Crestal Bone Loss and Prosthetic Maintenance.

“…41,42 Some studies have shown that PEEK can be employed as an overdenture attachment retainer. [43][44][45][46] PEEK can be fabricated using either CAD/CAM or injection molding.…”