Teaching mandibular implant- Supported overdentures in dental schools in North America – a survey

Objectives: Mandibular two-implant overdentures are considered the standard of care for edentulous patients, and provide excellent performance, as well as satisfaction to the patients. Dental schools are required to promote the teaching of current treatment options in order to enable students to master state-of-the art procedures.
The purpose of this study was to examine how the theoretical and practical aspects of mandibular two-implant overdentures are taught in dental schools in North America.
Methods: Data was collected via an online questionnaire that included questions regarding the theoretical and clinical courses, surgical procedure and imaging method.
Results: Of 75 schools, 36 responded to the survey. Almost all the schools teach the subject theoretically, but it is not mandatory for students to perform in most of the schools. Only a minority (23%) of the mandibular dentures made by students are implant-supported. Almost all of the schools (94%) use two implants to support overdentures and Locator abutment is used almost exclusively. The prevalent imaging for the surgical procedure is CT scans, although 30% of the schools use panoramic x-rays. None of the schools loads the implants immediately after surgery.
Conclusions: Some clear trends are apparent in the current survey: the use of two implants, no use of bars connectors and delayed loading of the implants. It is likely that graduates will not have sufficient clinical skills and will need continuing education in order to be familiar with the required procedures, both surgical and prosthetic.