The effect of implant-supported removable partial dentures on oral health quality of life.

PURPOSE: Removable partial dentures (RPDs) represent standard treatment for partial edentulism despite major shortcomings. To alleviate these shortcomings, endosseous implants provide support and stability as well as contribute to maintenance of alveolar bone. This prospective, within subject, time series study evaluated patient-based outcomes of RPDs compared to implant-supported removable partial dentures (ISRPDs). The study hypothesis was that the ISRPD would substantially improve oral health quality of life for patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen patients requesting new mandibular Kennedy I or II RPDs received one 6-mm dental implant in one or both of the posterior edentulous areas. After healing, conventional RPDs were fabricated and delivered. Twelve weeks later, second-stage surgery was performed, and ball abutments with Clix attachments were inserted, thereby converting the prostheses to ISRPDs. Oral health quality of life was evaluated using the 49-item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-49) questionnaire. The OHIP-49 was administered prior to treatment (baseline), at 6 and 12 weeks following RPD delivery and at 6 and 12 weeks following ISRPD conversion. Radiographic evaluation was performed at 6 and 12 weeks following ISRPD conversion. In statistical analysis, a fixed-slope random intercept variance components model took account of the multiple observations per person over time. RESULTS: In 17 subjects, 29 of 30 implants survived. The failed implant was replaced without complications. Abutment complications were limited to one abutment loosening and one attachment replacement. Minor prosthodontic complications were recorded. The OHIP-49 score reduced by 11.8 points, on average, at 12 weeks following ISRPD conversion (P = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: Patients reported improved oral health following conversion to an ISRPD from RPD. The ISRPD involving short implants is one treatment option that should be considered when treatment planning Kennedy Class I and II patients.