Restoring Anterior Aesthetics with the Andrew’s Type Bridge: A Case Report from Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Grossly resorbed anterior edentulous cases especially in a conservative and financially constrained patient present an aesthetic challenge to the rehabilitating dentist. This challenge can be overcome by the use of the Andrew’s Bridge. The construction of this prosthesis requires pre-fabricated components which may not be readily available in Nigeria. However, design modifications may produce satisfactory outcomes with this mode of treatment.

Case Report: A 24 year old man presented with a 14 year history of missing anterior teeth in the maxilla and mandible following a road traffic accident. The maxillary edentulous area was rehabilitated with an Andrew’s type bridge whose removable component gained retention from round wire retainers on abutment teeth. The mandibular edentulous area was rehabilitated with an acrylic denture.

Conclusion: The Andrews Bridge is a viable option for rehabilitating grossly resorbed ridges in Nigeria. Design modifications may overcome some of the infrastructural challenges that may be faced in its fabrication.

Keywords: Anterior aesthetics, Fixed-Removable, Andrew’s Bridge