Prosthetic Maintenance Assessment for Two Implant-Retained Overdentures Reinforced with PEKK versus Co-Cr Framework: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Abstract Background: The primary challenge associated with implant-retained overdentures lies in the occurrence of denture fractures around the attachment region. Hence, it is recommended to enhance flexural strength through reinforcement frameworks. This study aimed to assess and compare the prosthetic maintenance of mandibular implant-retained overdentures reinforced with Co-Cr and PEKK frameworks. Material and Methods: Twenty-four participants with completely edentulous maxillary and mandibular ridges were selected, and two implants were placed at the mandibular canine areas using a two-stage surgical technique with the help of a radiographic and surgical stent. After a three-month osseointegration period, ball attachments were installed. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups based on the prostheses received: Group I received a mandibular implant-retained overdenture reinforced with a Co-Cr framework, while Group II received a mandibular implant-retained overdenture reinforced with a PEKK framework. Both groups were also rehabilitated with a maxillary removable complete denture. Prosthetic maintenance evaluations for mandibular implant-retained overdentures in both groups were conducted twelve months post-denture insertion. Categorical data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test, and results were presented as frequency and percentage values. Results: Group II exhibited a significantly higher percentage of cases with screw looseness, denture relining, and tooth separation compared to Group I. Although Group II cases showed a non-significant increase in the percentage of insert wear and retention loss. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, the findings suggest that Co-Cr, in contrast to PEKK frameworks, offers a more reliable reinforcement of the implant-retained overdentures. Trial registration: The research was registered retrospectively and published on https://clinicaltrials.gov/ with the NCT number (NCT06219811) and registration date 23/01/2024.