Patient satisfaction in implant retained mandibular over denture using bullard versus ball and socket attachments

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate patient satisfaction in implant retained mandibular overdenture using bullard versus ball and socket attachments.

Material and Methods: twelve completely edentulous patients were selected from the Outpatient Clinic of the Prosthodontic department, Minia University, and were randomly allocated to two equal groups Ball & socket and Bullard attachments mandibular overdenture. All patients received 2 implants, 3.5 mm in diameter and 10 mm in length, were inserted in canine region. In the first group, prosthesis was retained by ball and socket attachments while in the second group, prosthesis was retained by Bullard attachment. For each patient in both groups patient satisfaction was assessed by help of the OHIP-14 Questionnaire at time of denture delivery, then six and twelve months later.

Results: There was statistically significant difference between both groups in four parameters which are physical pain, psychological discomfort, physical disability, and handicap favoring the bullard attachments over ball and socket.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study bullard attachments had advantages over ball & socket in terms of patient satisfaction among all follow up periods.