Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the long-term reliability of Locator®-retained mandibular or maxillary overdentures and to examine clinical and radiographic parameters of the supporting implants.

Patients and methods: The investigators performed a retrospective analysis of a case series. After implant placement and a submerged healing phase of about 3 months, all implants were restored with Locator ^® -retained overdentures. The follow-up examinations included the assessment of the hygienic parameters plaque index (PI) and sulcus bleeding index (SBI) as well as peri-implant soft tissue parameters, such as bleeding on probing (BOP) and pocket probing depth (PPD). The mean marginal bone loss was measured on panoramic radiographs. The clinical performance of Locator ^® components and the prosthetic restoration were evaluated. Descriptive statistics were computed. For statistical analysis, non-parametric and parametric tests with respect to the variable scale were used. The significance level was set at p > 0.05.

Results: The sample was composed of 33 patients (18 male, 15 female) with a mean age of 66.8 years who received 132 implants (84 in the anterior maxilla, 48 in the anterior mandible). After 32.9 months of follow-up, one maxillary implant was lost. All prosthetic restorations were still functionally in place at the last follow-up appointment with moderate prosthodontic maintenance effort. Clinical parameters and radiographs revealed healthy tissues around most implants.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that Locators ^® are a predictable alternative for anchorage of mandibular and maxillary overdentures with good clinical performance of both the prosthetic restorations and the supporting implants.