Find Your Perfect Tooth Replacement

In the realm of restorative dentistry, numerous innovative solutions have been developed to tackle the challenges associated with missing teeth. Among these, cantilever dental bridges have emerged as a unique method for tooth replacement. Unlike traditional bridges that require support from both sides of a gap, cantilever bridges are distinctively designed to anchor to only one adjacent tooth.

Discover more about our cantilever dental bridges guide by connecting with our Havre de Grace, MD dentist at (410) 939-5800.

What Are Cantilever Dental Bridges?

A cantilever dental bridge is used to replace a missing tooth when there is only one adjacent supporting tooth available. Unlike traditional bridges, which are secured on both sides by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth, a cantilever dental bridge is only attached to a crown on one side. The tooth adjacent to the artificial tooth is commonly referred to as the abutment tooth.

Cantilever bridges are often constructed from ceramic and metal or entirely from ceramic material, making them ideal for replacing a missing front tooth.

Benefits of Cantilever Dental Bridges

Cantilever dental bridges offer several advantages, including:

• Minimal Tooth Preparation: These bridges require minimal alteration of adjacent teeth, meaning the supporting teeth on one side of the gap retain more of their natural structure.
• Preservation of Tooth Integrity: With less modification of adjacent teeth, the risk of harming healthy tooth structure is minimized, promoting better long-term oral health for the supporting teeth.
• Effective for Small Gaps: Cantilever bridges are particularly beneficial for replacing a single missing tooth or in situations where there is only one tooth adjacent to the gap, making them suitable for specific tooth replacement scenarios.
• Simple Procedure: The placement of a cantilever bridge generally involves a less complex procedure compared to options like implant-supported bridges, resulting in a quicker and less invasive treatment process.
• Cost-Effective: Cantilever bridges can be a more affordable alternative to some options like implant-supported bridges, making them a more accessible choice for patients with budget considerations.
• Less Healing Time: Due to the less invasive nature of the procedure, patients often experience reduced healing times and less postoperative discomfort, leading to a faster recovery and return to normal oral function.

How the Process Works

Initial Consultation

Schedule an appointment with your Havre de Grace, MD dentist to discuss your tooth replacement needs. During the consultation, your dentist will assess your oral health, the condition of adjacent teeth, and the gap that requires filling.

Treatment Planning

If a cantilever bridge is deemed suitable, your dentist will devise a treatment plan. This plan will cover the design of the bridge, material selection, and the overall procedure approach.

On the procedure day, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the missing tooth and the adjacent teeth, ensuring your comfort during the treatment.

Tooth Preparation

The adjacent tooth (or teeth) intended to support the cantilever bridge will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the bridge.

Impression Taking

After preparing the tooth, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create a precise mold sent to a dental laboratory for bridge fabrication.

Temporary Bridge Placement

While your permanent bridge is being crafted, your dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared tooth and enhance aesthetics.

Bridge Fabrication

A skilled dental laboratory technician will use the impressions to create a custom-made cantilever bridge, designed to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless look.

Permanent Bridge Placement

Once the permanent bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office. The temporary bridge, if placed, will be removed, and the new cantilever bridge will be carefully fitted and adjusted as necessary.

Bonding

The bridge will be bonded to the prepared adjacent tooth using dental cement. The dentist will ensure a comfortable fit and proper alignment of your bite with the new bridge.

Final Adjustments

Your dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure your new bridge feels comfortable and functions properly when biting and chewing.

Do You Need a Cantilever Dental Bridge?

Your dentist may recommend a cantilever bridge for various reasons, such as:

• Single Missing Tooth: Cantilever bridges are suitable for individuals with a single missing tooth, particularly when only one tooth adjacent to the gap can provide support.
• Adjacent Tooth Strength: The adjacent tooth chosen for support should have good structural integrity and be free from significant dental issues like decay, gum disease, or extensive restorations.
• Small Gaps: Cantilever bridges are effective for small gaps where only one tooth needs replacement, especially when a traditional bridge with support on both sides is not feasible due to a lack of adjacent teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions