Objective: To compare patient satisfaction and peri-implant soft tissue changes of PEEK (BioHPP®) bar versus cobalt chromium (Co-Cr) bar retaining four implants mandibular overdenture.
Material and methods: Ten completely edentulous patients were received four implants, and were connected with bar attachment. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of bar construction. Group I: Co-Cr-bar attachment, Group II: BioHPP® -bar attachment. Overdentures were attached to the bars and opposed by conventional maxillary complete denture. Patient satisfaction and Peri-implant soft tissue were assessed at the time of overdentures insertion (T0), and twelve months later (T12).
Results: Co-Cr bars recorded significant higher plaque and bleeding scores than those of BioHPP® bars. Regarding mucosal recession and probing depth, Co-Cr bars recorded significant increase than that of BioHPP® bars. In addition, BioHPP® bars recorded significant higher patient satisfaction scores regarding patient comfort, taste of food, esthetics than Co-Cr bars.
Conclusion: mandibular overdenture on four implants supported Co-Cr bar or BioHPP® bar is considered a promising treatment solution. BioHPP® bar showed better results than those of Co-Cr bar regarding soft tissue changes and patient satisfaction.