Dynamic Postural Balance and Masticatory Efficiency in Edentulous Patients With All-on-4 Prostheses

Title: Correlation Between Dynamic Postural Balance and Masticatory Efficiency in Edentulous Patients Rehabilitated with All-on-4 Fixed Prostheses Background: Total tooth loss (edentulism) alters sensory feedback from the mouth, which can negatively affect head orientation, body alignment, and overall balance, increasing the risk of falls in older adults. While complete dentures replace missing teeth, their lack of stability often limits full recovery of chewing function and balance. Fixed All-on-4 implant restorations provide a rigid, bone-anchored base that restores full functional efficiency and stabilizes the occlusion. Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate masticatory (chewing) efficiency in completely edentulous patients treated with maxillary and mandibular All-on-4 fixed implant-supported restorations, and to determine its correlation with dynamic postural body balance over time. Methods: Sixteen completely edentulous male patients aged 50-60 years received maxillary and mandibular All-on-4 fixed restorations with standardized lingualized occlusal schemes. Masticatory efficiency was assessed using a color-changing chewing gum (scored on a 1-5 scale). Dynamic postural body balance was measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, which records the time in seconds taken to stand from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn, walk back, and sit down. Measurements were recorded at three time points: immediately after final restoration delivery, at 3 months post-loading, and at 6 months post-loading. Expected Outcomes: The study aims to clarify how stabilizing the bite with fixed implant restorations impacts both chewing performance and dynamic walking balance, supporting neuromuscular adaptation and functional independence in edentulous patients.