Implant-Connected Versus Tooth-Connected Implant-Supported Partial Dentures: 2-Year Clinical and Radiographic Comparative Evaluation

The purpose of this study was to clinically and radiographically compare implant-connected and tooth-connected implant-supported fixed-detachable mandibular partial dentures. Twenty partially edentulous patients (age range: 25 to 50 years) with mandibular Kennedy Class II configurations were equally divided into two groups receiving a three-unit, fixed-detachable, screw-retained partial denture. Group 1 comprised patients with unilateral missing mandibular molars and premolars. Two implants were placed at the mandibular first premolar and first molar areas. Group 2 comprised patients with missing mandibular molars and second premolars. An implant was placed at the mandibular first molar area, the first premolar was prepared, and a coping was cemented to the tooth with permanent cement. Each case was evaluated clinically and radiographically at baseline (partial denture insertion) and after 6, 12, and 24 months. Data were collected and statistically analyzed using repeated-measures one-way and two-way analysis of variance tests. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > .05). The implant-tooth-supported prosthesis provided an equally predictable treatment option compared to the totally implant-supported prosthesis in terms of implant survival and loss of marginal bone.