Two Years Retrospective Evaluation of Overdenture Retained by Symphyseal Single Implant Using Two Types of Attachments

BACKGROUND This study was aimed to evaluate complete mandibular overdentures retained by a symphyseal single implant using ball and magnet attachments in both clinical and radiographic evaluation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten dental press fit titanium implants were installed in the lower jaws of completely edentulous patients according to two-stage surgical protocol. For each patient, one implant was installed in the symphyseal midline region, and left submerged and unloaded for 4 months. The patients were then divided into two equal groups. The first group received mandibular overdentures retained by ball and socket attachment. The second group received mandibular overdentures retained by magnet attachment. Both groups were supplied with conventional maxillary complete dentures. All patients were evaluated immediately after denture insertion, 6 months, and 12 months and after 24 months of overdenture insertion. RESULTS The study showed insignificant difference regarding the clinical condition and the marginal bone height changes in both groups during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION Single implant retained overdenture with ball and socket or magnetic attachments was easy in construction, required less home care to maintain gingival health and give satisfactory clinical results.