Unilateral Attachment Versus Tooth Implant Supported Bridge

Purpose: Evaluation of patients' satisfaction, biting force measurement and radiographic evaluation of abutment teeth of tooth implant supported bridge, unilateral attachment and conventional partial denture in mandibular distal extension cases.

Materials and methods: Twenty four patients were selected according to the following criteria: Patients with unilateral mandibular distal extension with last standing second premolar abutment, abutments showed sufficient occluso-gingival height and good periodontal condition. Patients were divided into three equal groups, each of eight patients: patients of group I Patients received a fixed tooth implant supported bridge, patients of group II Patients received a removable unilateral attachment partial denture and group III Patients received a conventional removable partial denture.Evaluation included patient satisfaction using "OHIP14" questionnaires and biting force measurement radiographic evaluation of terminal abutments.

Inclusion criteria

• Unilateral mandibular distal extension area
• The abutments showed sufficient occluso-gingival height of its clinical crown
• Adequate inter-arch space and no tempro-mandibular joint disorders.
• No para-functional habits,
• Full opposing arch or restored with acceptable fixed restoration
• Minimal bone height11 mm at the lower second molar area.

Exclusion criteria

*Insufficent bone height in posterior area of mandible