Dentistry

Abstract

Evaluating The Use Of ERA Mini Dental Implants Retaining Mandibular Overdenture (In Vitro Study)

Sabet ME, Shawky AMOA and AlyRagab DAM

This simulation study was conducted to evaluate the use of ERA white attachment versus Ball attachment for mini dental implants retained mandibular overdenture regarding retentive forces and forces transmitted to the peri-implant bone during overdenture loading. This in vitro study was carried out on duplicated educational mandibular acrylic model, and experimental overdentures. In the intraforaminal region, four mini dental implants were installed in each cast. One cast received mini implants with ERA white attachment, while the other received mini implants with ball attachment. The female attachment components were picked up in the overdenture. Strain gauges were installed, one on the distal surface of each of the two distal implants. Universal testing machine was used to apply standardized static load unilaterally on the lower right first molar, both vertically, and obliquely. Micro strains were recorded for each strain gauge. Data obtained were calculated, tabulated, and statistically analyzed to compare between the two attachment designs. Hooks were then attached to the overdentures, and dislodgment test was performed by the Universal testing machine. Data obtained were calculated, tabulated, and statistically analyzed to compare between the two attachment designs The results of this study revealed that the ERA white attachment transmits less strain to the peri-implant bone than the ball attachment, on both vertical and oblique loading while the ball attachment is more retentive then the ERA white attachment.