Where?
At the back end of an arch.
← All explanationsDistal-extension situation
What does it mean when several back teeth are missing?
In a distal-extension situation, posterior teeth are missing with no natural tooth behind the gap. This may affect one or both sides. Planning needs to consider where a restoration can gain support and the role of the remaining teeth.
For training & practice ↓
AI-generated
Choose a view
Identify the gap
A space between two existing teeth has different boundaries from a toothless area at the end of an arch.
Understand support
Depending on the restoration, teeth, mucosa and possibly implants may carry different shares of the load. These structures do not behave identically.
Plan individually
Remaining teeth, the ridge, opposing teeth, cleaning and personal preferences influence selection. Every missing posterior unit does not automatically need the same replacement.
Read the full explanation
Identify the gap
A space between two existing teeth has different boundaries from a toothless area at the end of an arch.
Understand support
Depending on the restoration, teeth, mucosa and possibly implants may carry different shares of the load. These structures do not behave identically.
Plan individually
Remaining teeth, the ridge, opposing teeth, cleaning and personal preferences influence selection. Every missing posterior unit does not automatically need the same replacement.
Notes on the teaching images
- In a distal-extension situation there is no tooth behind the gap. This is a one-sided model example.
- Teeth and mucosa respond differently to loading. A restoration’s support needs to take this into account.
- Remaining teeth, ridge, preferences and loading are considered together. This model does not prescribe a particular restoration.
At a glance
One or both sides?
Either is possible.
Priorities?
Support, function and cleaning access.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Bounded and free-end gaps
A bounded gap lies between existing teeth. A free-end gap has no natural tooth behind it.
Quick answers
Is a conventional bridge always possible?
Not automatically. There is no natural posterior abutment beyond the free end. Special bridge designs or other solutions require professional assessment.
Are implants compulsory?
No. Implants are a possible planning option, not part of the definition. Suitability and other restorative approaches are considered individually.
What if a partial denture rocks when chewing?
Have its fit, support and tissues checked. Do not bend clasps or grind the base yourself; oral changes may require adjustment.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How could my restoration be supported, and which options suit the remaining teeth?
Missing back teeth or a moving restoration? Assessment can clarify sensible next steps.
Discuss replacement optionsAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Abutment tooth
- A tooth that supports or retains a restoration.
- Denture base
- The part of a denture resting on tissues.
- Residual ridge
- The remaining bone and soft-tissue area following tooth loss.
Make the distinction
A bounded gap lies between existing teeth. A free-end gap has no natural tooth behind it.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.