The influence of implant number and attachment type on maximum bite force of mandibular overdentures: A retrospective study

Aim: Assessment of the influence of such factors as attachment type, number of implants, gender and age of patients on maximum bite force (MBF). Material and methods: Sixty-two edentulous patients (32 females, 30 males; aged 64.03 ± 10.07 years, range 42-90 years) with mandibular implant overdentures with various attachment types were included in the study and their MBFs were recorded. The results were evaluated statistically at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The MBF in male patients was found to be statistically significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in female patients. No statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were found with respect to age groups, attachment types and number of implants supporting the mandibular overdentures. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it is concluded that independent of the number applied, dental implants increase MBF in edentulous patients. While males show higher bite force, patient age and attachment type seem not to play an important role.