A Comparative Computerized Occlusal Analysis of Conventional Complete Denture and Single Implant Retained Mandibular Overdenture

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the occlusal characteristics of conventional complete dentures (CCD) and single implant-retained mandibular overdentures (SIMO) using computerized occlusal analysis over a six-month period. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled study included 22 edentulous patients divided into SIMO (n=11) and CCD (n=11) groups. Randomization used computer-generated tables.Dentures were fabricated following standardized protocols, with post-insertion occlusal adjustments. Digital occlusal analysis (T-Scan) was performed at three time points: 48 hours (T1), 3 months (T2), and 6 months (T3) post-insertion. The primary outcomes measured were the number of occlusal tooth contacts, percent biting occlusal force, percent bilateral force difference (left vs. right), and percent force distribution on left and right sides. Independent t-tests compared groups at each time point (p<0.05). For longitudinal analysis, repeated measures ANOVA assessed changes from T1 to T3 within groups. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups in terms of number of occlusal contacts (P>0.05), percent biting occlusal force (P>0.05), percent bilateral force difference (P>0.05), and percent force distribution (P>0.05) at all time points. Conclusions: The findings suggest that CCD and SIMO provide comparable occlusal performance over six months when properly adjusted. Clinicians may consider patient-specific factors such as cost, comfort, and anatomical conditions rather than occlusal outcomes alone when selecting between these treatment options.