A 1-Year Parallel-Group Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of a Mandibular Complete Denture vs an Early Loaded Single-Implant Overdenture.

PURPOSE:To assess the effectiveness of converting a conventional mandibular denture (CMD) into a single-implant mandibular overdenture (SIMO). MATERIALS AND METHODS:Edentulous patients received a new CMD and were randomly assigned to the CMD or SIMO group. For SIMO patients, a midline early-loaded implant was inserted and incorporated into the CMD after 3 weeks. Patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life were assessed at baseline and up to 1 year. Regression models were constructed using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE). RESULTS:After 12 months, 32 patients were assessed (CMD: n = 17; SIMO: n = 15). Significant improvement was observed for the SIMO group compared to baseline measures. CONCLUSIONS:SIMO may be considered an effective alternative for patients unsatisfied with their CMDs.