Biological Response of Different Locator Heights in Mandibular Overdenture Wearers .

Introduction: The locator attachment has been widely and successfully used to support dentures has dual retention and is available in different heights with different retention values; in addition, their repair and replacement are quick and straight forward. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare clinically and radio graphically the biological effect of two different locator heights on peri-implant bone width and probing depth in mandibular implant overdenture wearers. Materials and methods: Conventional complete dentures were constructed for twelve completely edentulous male patients, chosen from Out-clinic of faculty of dentistry Suez Canal University. Two implant were inserted in the lower cusped region then the patients divided randomly into two groups Group A(GA): Six patients received implant retained over denture with 1mm locator height. Group B (GB): Six patients received implant retained over denture with 3mm locator height, the follow up both clinically and radiography were taken at 0, 6, 12 and 18 months starting from the first day of over denture attachment pick up. Peri-implant bone width and probing depth were estimated through the evaluation periods. Results: It was found that the reduction in the peri-implant alveolar buccolingual width and probing depth around the implants were higher in GA than GB at all follow up periods, except for the last follow up period. Conclusion: The locator height has a biological effect on bone width and probing depth as the higher locator height the more preservation of peri-implant bone.