Use of bar attachments in implant prostheses: two case reports

Aim: Complete edentulism poses various functional, esthetic, and psychosocial challenges for affected individuals. Conventional complete dentures have long been used for the rehabilitation of completely edentulous patients; however, progressive alveolar bone resorption often compromises denture retention and stability. Implant-supported overdenture prostheses have become a predictable treatment option because they improve retention, stability, masticatory efficiency, and patient satisfaction. This case report aims to present the clinical rehabilitation of completely edentulous patients using implant-supported overdentures retained with Dolder bar attachments fabricated by selective laser sintering.
Material and Methods: Two completely edentulous patients with inadequate retention and stability of conventional complete dentures were rehabilitated with implant-supported bar-retained overdentures. Following implant placement and osseointegration, impressions were obtained, bar frameworks were digitally designed and fabricated using selective laser sintering (SLS), and definitive overdentures were delivered. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed during follow-up appointments.
Results: Both patients were successfully rehabilitated with implant-supported overdentures retained by bar attachments. In the first case, follow-up evaluations demonstrated satisfactory prosthesis retention and stability, with healthy peri-implant tissues, no biological or mechanical complications, and high patient satisfaction. In the second case, a slight reduction in retention was observed at the 6-month follow-up and was successfully managed by reactivation of the metal clip housings, restoring adequate prosthesis retention and stability.
Conclusion: Implant-supported overdentures retained with Dolder bar attachments fabricated by selective laser sintering provided predictable clinical outcomes, improved prosthesis stability, and high patient satisfaction. Within the limitations of this case report, this treatment approach appears to be a reliable option for the rehabilitation of completely edentulous patients.