Clinical observation of maxillary implant prostheses supported by bar and Locator attachment
FU Jun
ZHENG Jia-bao
CHANG Pan-hui
CHEN Ming
Abstract：Objective To summarize and and evaluate the clinical effectiveness of combining casting/machining rods with Locator attachments in the restoration of implant-supported overdentures for patients with edentulous maxillae or multiple missing teeth.Methods Eight elderly patients with edentulous maxilla or only a few remaining natural teeth,treated at Beijing Stomatological Hospital,Capital Medical University between January 2014 and January 2023,were selected.Five to six implants were placed in each patient.Rigidly connected cast or machined bars were fabricated for the posterior regions on both sides of the maxilla,while Locator attachments were utilized for the anterior implants to enhance retention.Eight patients received implant-supported overdentures.All patients underwent regular follow-up examinations over a period of 3 to 10 years to evaluate their satisfaction with denture function and masticatory performance.Peri-implant bone resorption was assessed using radiographic imaging.Results A total of 46 implants in 8 patients showed no looseness or failure,and there was no abnormal peri-implant bone resorption.The dentures maintained stable retention and support over time,with high patient satisfaction regarding functional recovery,aesthetics,and comfort.Conclusion The use of cast/milled bars combined with Locator attachments for implant-supported overdentures in edentulous maxilla achieved long-term stable aesthetic and functional outcomes.This technique offers simplified fabrication,moderate yet durable retention,and is worthy of further clinical promotion and research.
Keywords：implant overdenturemaxillary edentulous jawbar attachmentLocator attachment
Publication Date：2025-09-20
Online Publishing Date：2025-09-24(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：6( 357-362 )