A clinical comparison of prosthetic complications of implant-supported overdentures with different attachment systems

Objectives: The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the prosthetic complications of patients with 2 to 4 implants splinted with a round bar or with 2 to 4 unsplinted implants with ball attachments during the follow-up period. Methods: A total of 26 patients were included in this study. Patients were randomly provided with a round bar or with ball attachments that were used to retain overdentures. During follow-up visits, the following prosthetic complications were recorded: round bar fracture, fractured overdenture, hygiene complications, abutment screw loose, worn O-ring or replacement of O-ring attachment, and fractured retention clip. The functioning period of overdentures in the round bar group ranged from 12 to 72 months (mean 49), and from 12 to 40 months (mean 23) in the ball attachment group. Results: A total of 20 prosthetic complications were recorded in both groups. No differences in prosthetic complications were observed for 2 attachment systems. Conclusion: Implant-supported overdentures with bar or ball attachments may be considered to be reliable methods in the treatment of the edentulous individuals.