Prosthodontic Rehabilitation of a Partially Edentulous Mandibular Arch Using the Andrews Bridge System: A Case Report

Abstract

Rehabilitation of partially edentulous arches with extensive ridge defects presents both functional and esthetic challenges, especially in elderly patients where surgical interventions or implant therapy may be contraindicated. The Andrews Bridge system offers a unique fixed–removable design that combines the stability of fixed prostheses with the hygiene access of removable ones. This case report describes the prosthodontic rehabilitation of a 70-year-old male patient who presented with a completely edentulous maxillary arch and a partially edentulous mandibular arch retaining only the molars (37, 38, 47, and 48), all of which were periodontally sound. Intentional root canal therapy was performed on the remaining teeth, followed by full metal crown preparation to serve as abutments. A metallic complete denture was fabricated for the maxillary arch, while the mandibular arch was rehabilitated using an Andrews Bridge system. The bar-and-sleeve attachment provided excellent retention and stability to the removable pontic segment, achieving favorable esthetics, function, and hygiene maintenance. The Andrews Bridge continues to be a conservative, biomechanically sound, and cost-effective alternative for managing long edentulous spans and ridge defects, offering fixed-like retention with removable convenience, particularly beneficial in geriatric prosthodontic care.