Biological Response of Different Locator Heights in Mandibular Overdenture Wearers .

Abstract

ABSTRACTIntroduction: The locator attachment has been widely and successfully used tosupport dentures has dual retention and is available in different heights with differentretention values; in addition, their repair and replacement are quick and straightforward. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare clinically and radio graphicallythe biological effect of two different locator heights on peri-implant bonewidth and probing depth in mandibular implant overdenture wearers. Materials andmethods: Conventional complete dentures were constructed for twelve completelyedentulous male patients, chosen from Out-clinic of faculty of dentistry Suez CanalUniversity. Two implant were inserted in the lower cusped region then the patientsdivided randomly into two groups Group A(GA): Six patients received implant retainedover denture with 1mm locator height. Group B (GB): Six patients received implantretained over denture with 3mm locator height, the follow up both clinically and radiographywere taken at 0, 6, 12 and 18 months starting from the first day of over dentureattachment pick up. Peri-implant bone width and probing depth were estimated throughthe evaluation periods. Results: It was found that the reduction in the peri-implantalveolar buccolingual width and probing depth around the implants were higher in GAthan GB at all follow up periods, except for the last follow up period. Conclusion: Thelocator height has a biological effect on bone width and probing depth as the higherlocator height the more preservation of peri-implant bone.