Effect of Zirconium Mucosal Inserts on the Supporting Structures of Maxillary Overdentures

Abstract

The effect of zirconium mucosal inserts on overdenture supporting structures was evaluated in this study. Twenty male completely edentulous patients were chosen, that are free from any systemic or local diseases that might affect the results of this study. The patients were divided into two groups. Each group consisted of ten patients. Group I received conventional complete dentures, incorporated with gutta percha balls at the areas of the first and second premolars, and first and second molars of both sides. All complete dentures were constructed using face bow and semi-adjustable articulator. Group II received overdentures fitted with eight zirconium mucosal inserts each, at the areas of the first and second premolars and the first and second molars of both sides. The complete dentures were constructed using exactly the same technique as in Group I. For Group II patients, a surgical drilling guide was also constructed and used in the intraoral drilling procedures. The bone changes in Group I were measured mesial to each gutta percha ball in the premolar and molar regions. And in the anterior regions it was measured 5 mm and 10 mm anterior to the most anterior gutta percha ball on both sides. For Group II, the bone changes were measured mesial to each mucosal insert in the premolar and molar region, and anteriorly it was measures 5 mm and 10 mm anterior to the most anterior mucosal insert on both sides. The bone changes were evaluated using cone beam CT at the time of delivery, after 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months.