Mucosal Manifestations in the Edentulous Maxilla with Implant Supported Prostheses: Clinical Results from a Well‐Maintained Patient Cohort

BACKGROUND: Prostheses in the edentulous maxilla affect the mucosa. PURPOSE: To evaluate mucosal alterations with implant supported fixed prostheses (FDP) and overdentures (IOD). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients receiving prostheses during a time period of 10 years were recruited. Maxillary mucosal conditions in relation to FDPs, IODs were analyzed. Peri-implant parameters were measured and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) was administered. RESULTS: One hundred seven patients wearing 74 IODs and 33 FDPs were identified with a total of 519 implants, the mean observation time was 6.5 ± 2.7. Cumulative implant survival was 93%. Erythema and hyperplastic tissue were identified in 71% of the IOD wearers, but were mostly absent with FDPs. The peri-implant parameters demonstrated healthy peri-implant mucosa. Medication and smoking had no effect on mucosal alteration (OR = 1.065 and 1.568). The average OHIP value was 3.73 ± 4.12. A lower value (p < 0.0048) was found for FDPs and one type of IOD. CONCLUSIONS: A rigorous maintenance program did not prevent IOD mucosal alterations in IOD wearers, but the health of the peri-implant mucosa was maintained and was comparable for all types of prostheses.