Comparing the efficacy of mandibular implant-retained overdentures and conventional dentures among elderly edentulous patients:: satisfaction and quality of life

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the satisfaction and the quality of life in an elderly population using either mandibular conventional dentures or implant-retained overdentures. Materials and methods: A total of 34 patients were divided into two groups: group I-complete dentures users; group II - users of upper complete dentures opposed by implant-retained overdentures. The subjects were submitted to a questionnaire based on Oral Health impact Profile and oral health related quality of life to evaluate their satisfaction levels and quality of life with their prostheses. Data were evaluated using a non-parametric statistical analysis (Fischer test) with significant difference at alpha = 0.05. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups in relation to comfort, aesthetics, chewing ability, overall satisfaction, pain, functional, phonetic, social, and psychological limitations (p > 0.05). Comparing the stability of mandibular dentures, group II presented the better results (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although the stability of the mandibular implant-retained overdenture was enhanced compared to a conventional denture, the quality of life and satisfaction levels were similar for both the groups.