ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: This prospective cohort study estimated the effect of technical and clinical factors on mechanical complications in implant-supported fixed complete dentures (IFCDs). The patient's perception of the impact of oral rehabilitation on quality of life was assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A non-probabilistic sample consisted of 88 consecutive patients treated with 94 screw-retained, metal-acrylic IFCDs. Data collection included sociodemographic variables, presence and intensity of bruxism, maximal occlusal force, opposing arch, design of the metallic framework, distribution of occlusal contacts, and quality of life (OHIP-14). IFCD-level data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression model. Quality of life data were analyzed by paired Student t test. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 35.1 ± 18.3 months, 16/94 IFCDs (17%) had repairable mechanical complications because of loosening/fracture of artificial teeth (n = 15) and screw loosening (n = 1). Framework design (retention pins <4 mm) was a significant risk factor for complications (HR = 11.038; p = 0.027) when adjusted for sex. Mechanical complications were not associated with sex, body mass index, thickness of the acrylic resin veneering, type of opposing arch, distribution of occlusal contacts and force, protrusion interference, presence/intensity of bruxism or maximal occlusal force. OHIP-14 total scores decreased after IFCD treatment for both patients with or without complications. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this study, the results suggest that clinical success is associated to framework design with retention pins equal or longer than 4 mm. Quality of life improved with IFCD treatment, even in patients with mechanical complications.
