Metal versus Poly ether-ether ketone (PEEK) framework reinforcements for maxillary palateless ball retained implant overdentures. One year clinical and radiographic outcomes

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate both the clinical and radiographic outcomes of metal and Poly ether-ether ketone (PEEK) framework reinforcement materials for maxillary palateless ball retained implant overdentures after one year follow-up period .
Materials and methods: Eight edentulous patients with edentulous maxillary ridges and implant retained mandibular overdentures who complained from lack of retention of their maxillary dentures were classified into 2 groups; group 1 included 4 patients who received palateless maxillary overdentures with cobalt chromium metal reinforcement, group 2 (included 4 patients who received palateless maxillary overdentures with PEEK reinforcement. All patients received 4 implants in canine and second premolar areas of maxilla. After 6 months, overdentures were attached to the fixtures with O/ring attachments. Clinical outcomes included Plaque indices, bleeding indices, depth of probing and implant mobility) and radiographical evaluation included marginal bone resorption. All outcomes were evaluated at prosthesis delivery, 6 months and one year after prosthesis delivery.
Results: The survival rate of the implants showed significant difference, as it was 83% and 100% for metal and PEEK groups respectively. Plaque and bleeding scores, as well as pocket depth increased significantly from base line to 12 months. Bone resorption progress significantly from 6 months to 12 months in both groups. PEEK group showed significantly lower plaque scores, bleeding scores, probing depth and bone resorption than metal one. No significant differences in mobility of the implants in-between observation times or groups were noted