Evaluation of mini-implant-retained overdentures on the electromyographic activity and patients’ satisfaction in completely edentulous patients (randomized clinical trial)

Background: With the advance of the dental implants, the retention and stability of mandibular complete denture have been improved to a large extent. The implants could be placed interforaminally or in anterior and posterior ridge areas. The placements of the implant in the molar area increase denture support that reflects on improvement in patient mastication and muscles activity. Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the distribution of the miniimplants (MIs) on electromyographic (EMG) activity of masticatory muscles and overall patient satisfaction. Materials and Methods: Ten completely edentulous male patients with severely resorbed mandibular ridge were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group (I and II) according to the MIs and distribution pattern. Group (I): Five patients had received four mini-dental implants in interforaminal area. Group (II): Five patients had received four mini-dental implants (two implants in the interforaminal area and two implants in the molar areas). All patients had received implant overdentures. Overdentures were connected to the MIs with O-ring attachments. For each patient, the EMG activity of masticatory muscles and a survey of therapeutic satisfaction before and after connection to the MIs was evaluated. Results: The MI-retained overdentures of the Group II in which the implants placed in the interforaminal area and molar areas showed significant lower EMG values than Group I with soft and hard foods as well as clenching. Conclusions: The distribution of MIs plays a role in the muscle activity, and the placement of implants in the molar area improves the muscle activity and patient satisfaction. Clinical Significance: The placement of MIs to retain mandibular complete denture improves muscles activity and patient satisfaction, particularly, if placed in both anterior and molars areas.