Journal of implantology and applied sciences ISSN:2765-7833(Print) 2765-7841(Online) 대한구강악안면임플란트학회지

Purpose: Edentulous maxillary rehabilitation with implants is a crucial treatment modality to enhance masticatory function and quality of life. Primary prosthetic options include implant-supported fixed prostheses and implant overdentures; the optimal treatment choice depends on patient-specific factors. In the present study, we established the selection criteria for implant treatment in patients with maxillary edentulism.

Materials and Methods: A total of 26 patients with maxillary edentulism were included, with 10 patients receiving fixed prostheses and 16 receiving overdentures. Variables such as mean age, number of opposing natural teeth, maxillary residual bone height, number and location of maxillary implants, economic status, and presence of severe systemic diseases (uncontrolled diabetes, anticoagulant use, and history of malignancy) were analyzed.

Results: Patients in the fixed prosthesis group had a mean age of 65.2 years, an average of 9.1 maxillary implants, 7.5 opposing natural teeth, and a mean residual bone height of 13 mm, with 10% having severe systemic diseases. Those in the overdenture group had a mean age of 72.8 years, an average of 4.4 maxillary implants, three opposing natural teeth, and a mean residual bone height (cortical bone to sinus floor) of 8 mm, with 30% having severe systemic diseases. Fixed prostheses were primarily supported by bilateral central incisors, canines, one premolar, and two molars, whereas overdentures were supported by canines and second premolars or lateral incisors and first premolars.

Conclusion: Patients who received fixed prostheses were younger, and had more opposing natural teeth, greater residual bone height, fewer systemic diseases, and better financial status. This study contributes to the definition of selection criteria for implant-supported maxillary prostheses for patients with edentulism