Can general dentists produce successful implant overdentures with minimal training?

Objectives This study was carried out to determine whether inexperienced dentists can provide two-implant overdentures that are as satisfactory and of the same cost as those provided by experienced prosthodontists. Methods Edentulous elders were enrolled in a randomized controlled clinical trial to compare the effects of mandibular conventional and two-implant overdentures on nutrition. They were randomly assigned to groups that were treated by either an experienced prosthodontist or by a newly-graduated dentist with minimal training in implant treatment. Data for this study were obtained during the treatment of the first 140 subjects enrolled. The change in patient ratings of satisfaction after treatment, laboratory costs and the number of unscheduled visits up to 6 months following prosthesis delivery were compared. Results Satisfaction was significantly higher with implant overdentures than with conventional dentures, but there were no differences in scores for either prosthesis between the groups treated by experienced specialists or new dentists. Furthermore, six of the seven inexperienced dentists reported that they found the mandibular two-implant overdenture easier to provide than the conventional denture. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that general dentists can provide successful mandibular two-implant overdentures with minimal training.