What are Cantilever Bridges

A Cantilever Bridge in dentistry is a type of dental prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. It’s named “Cantilever” because it is supported on one end (unlike a traditional Bridge that is supported on both ends). This design allows for replacing a missing tooth when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the gap.

Here’s how a Cantilever Bridge typically works in dentistry:

1. Design and Structure: A Cantilever Bridge consists of a false tooth (pontic) suspended between two dental crowns. The pontic fills the space left by a missing tooth, and the crowns are placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap or dental implants.
2. Attachment: The pontic is bonded to one or more crowns on the side of the missing tooth. These crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth or dental implants adjacent to the gap.
3. Support: The natural teeth or dental implants act as the support for the Bridge. The Cantilevered pontic relies on these supports to remain stable and functional.
4. Advantages: Cantilever Bridges are used when only one side of the gap has a suitable tooth or implant for support. This can be advantageous when placing a traditional Bridge is not feasible due to limited space or other factors.
5. Considerations: The success and durability of a Cantilever Bridge depends on the strength and health of the supporting tooth or implant. It’s essential to carefully assess the adjacent teeth and bone structure condition before deciding on this type of Bridge.
6. Maintenance: Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial to ensure the longevity of a Cantilever Bridge. Patients should maintain good oral care to prevent complications and maintain the health of the supporting teeth or implants.
7. Alternative Options: In cases with teeth or implants on both sides of the gap, a traditional Bridge or implant-supported Bridge may be recommended for a more balanced and stable restoration. A denture or, of course, living with a gap is another option.

A Cantilever Bridge is a viable option for replacing a missing tooth or teeth when traditional Bridge placement is impossible due to the lack of suitable support on one side of the gap, or we do not want to destroy great teeth.

However, the decision to opt for a Cantilever Bridge should be based on a thorough evaluation by a dentist to ensure it’s the best solution for the patient’s specific dental condition.

Here’s a case that we completed showing a Zirconium Cantilever Bridge being fitted.