Comparison between two low profile attachments for implant mandibular overdentures

ObjectiveIn this research it was aimed to evaluate stress distribution on the implants supporting a complete overdenture in addition to compare between two different types of low-profile attachments for implant-retained mandibular overdenture with two techniques (with/without using connecting bar).Materials and methodsTwo 3D finite element models were constructed simulating supported lower complete overdenture with two implants and with two implants and bar. Where, models components were modeled in 3D on commercial general purpose CAD/CAM software. Four runs were carried out, two runs on each model, as linear static analysis.ResultsUsing bar is generally preferred for mucosa and cortical bone, while its effect can be considered as negligible on overdenture. On the other hand, it slightly increases the stresses on spongy bone. Using bar ensures the same level of energy transfer to the spongy bone and increases its maximum Von Mises stresses by about 50%. In addition, increase in maximum Von Mises stress was noticed by about 1% on cortical bone.ConclusionUsing bar is not recommended for patients with flat ridge.