Masseter Muscle Activity in Full-Arch Fixed Implant Prostheses Versus Implant-Supported Overdentures: A Systematic Review

This project aims to conduct a systematic review evaluating differences in masseter muscle activity between full-arch fixed implant prostheses and implant-supported overdentures in fully edentulous adults. Restoration of masticatory function is a primary objective in implant-supported prosthodontic rehabilitation. Electromyographic (EMG) assessment of the masseter muscle provides an objective measure of neuromuscular function and functional adaptation following prosthetic treatment. Although implant-supported prostheses have been shown to improve oral function compared to conventional complete dentures, the comparative neuromuscular effects between fixed full-arch prostheses and implant-supported overdentures remain unclear. Previous systematic reviews have evaluated EMG activity in mixed prosthetic designs up to 2013; however, no recent focused synthesis has directly compared contemporary full-arch fixed implant prostheses with implant-supported overdentures. This systematic review will include randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical studies involving fully edentulous adults rehabilitated with implant-supported prostheses. The primary outcome will be masseter muscle activity measured using surface electromyography (EMG). Secondary outcomes may include bite force and masticatory performance where available. The findings of this review are expected to clarify whether prosthesis design influences neuromuscular activity and to provide clinically relevant evidence for prosthodontic treatment planning in edentulous patients.