Occlusal force and mandibular movements in patients with removable overdentures and fixed prostheses supported by implants in the maxilla.

Thirteen patients with complete dentures in the maxilla were treated with implants to support a removable bar-retained overdenture for 1 year. Thereafter, the patients were provided with fixed prostheses and were followed up for another year. Maximal occlusal force and mandibular movements were recorded with and without the bar supporting the denture and then during the subsequent year with fixed prostheses. Significant changes in occlusal force capacity and mandibular movements were observed when the bar was removed. Less obvious functional changes were found when the fixed prostheses were placed, with the exception of occlusal force levels, which increased significantly over time.