The Effects of a Mandibular Overdenture on Edentulous Patients’ Quality of Life: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Edentulous patients’ quality of life can be greatly diminished by the use of a badly fitting removable prosthesis, as many aspects of social life become notably impaired. The object of this study was to evaluate if treating these patients with a two implants mandibular overdenture could improve their quality of life as measured with the Italian version of the OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile). Edentulous patients, in good clinical condition, were selected. Two implants were placed following the recommended guidelines and three months after new mandibular dentures were manufactured, implants were uncovered and connected to the prosthesis using LOCATOR abutments. OHIP-14 was measured at baseline, one month after delivery and one year after delivery. An improvement was observed even after one month (with a mean reduction of 17 points in OHIP) and that improvement appeared to be stable at the one-year follow-up. Mandibular overdentures can improve a patient’s quality of life when compared to a tissue-supported removable complete denture, as long as the patient is subjected to an appropriate follow-up as the retentive rings of the attachment can deteriorate even after two years and lose a great deal of retentive capabilities.