Occlusal Function In Edentulism With Implant-Supported Fixed Dental Prostheses

This study aimed to evaluate the occlusal function of edentulous patients rehabilitated with implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (IFDP). 32 patients who received IFDP in both arches between 2018 and 2025 were included, along with 32 individuals with natural dentition as a reference group. Occlusal function was measured using the TeeTester system, which recorded occlusal contacts from the rest position to maximal intercuspation. Based on the recorded data, occlusal parameters were analyzed, including occlusion time (s), maximum occlusal contact area (mm²), maximum occlusal force (kg), average occlusal pressure (kg/mm²), bilateral occlusal force percentage (%), and occlusal force center displacement (mm). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare occlusal function between groups, while Spearman’s rank correlation was used to assess the relationships among occlusal parameters within the IFDP group. Compared with the natural dentition group, the IFDP group exhibited lower average occlusal pressure and larger occlusal contact area. No significant differences were observed in occlusal force, occlusion time, bilateral occlusal force percentage, or occlusal force center displacement. Within the IFDP group, maximum occlusal contact area showed a strong positive correlation with maximum occlusal force and a negative correlation with occlusal force center displacement. The occlusal force and stability of IFDPs are comparable to those of natural dentitions. Moreover, a sufficient occlusal contact area helps reduce average occlusal pressure and promotes a more balanced distribution of occlusal force.