As missing teeth become a common problem among patients, dental surgeons have come up with solutions to help address the issue. And one of the best choices they offer today is a dental bridge. Getting one involves placing a pontic or a false tooth in the gap between two teeth. It is supported by one or more crowns that are placed on the neighboring teeth.
There are different types of bridges; traditional, Maryland bonded, and cantilever tooth bridge. Dentists recommend the first two to people who have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap left by missing teeth. But for patients who only have one tooth available for support, the doctors will often use a cantilever dental bridge.
What Is a Cantilever Bridge?
Sometimes, there are cases where the doctor is not allowed to put supporting crowns on both sides of the gap. This happens under the following situations:
- No teeth exist on one side of the breach
- The teeth on both sides of the gap should not be touched, due to aesthetic purposes
- The eligible tooth on one side is already supporting another prosthetic restoration and cannot be replaced
Cantilever bridges should be planned carefully since there’s a risk of jeopardizing the stability of the supporting teeth. One study from the Journal of Dentistry noted that this type of bridge is often used to replace a patient’s missing front tooth and is usually made of ceramic or a mix of metal and ceramic.
Benefits of Having a Cantilever Bridge
The Journal of Dentistry also included the different advantages a patient can get from the bridge. Here are some of them:
- Simple Placement
Unlike other tooth replacement options, this procedure will not require the use of anesthesia. This means that this treatment will not hurt, and is good for people who are reluctant to undergo complicated procedures. - Better Appearance
Cantilever tooth bridges are often used to replace missing teeth in front of the mouth, which is called the “aesthetic zone.” It goes without saying that this type of bridge can offer a better appearance for your smile while being fully functional. - Lower Cost
Given that the technique used for a cantilever bridge is more conservative, it is less expensive compared to other tooth replacement options. - High Survival Rate
Like dental implants, a cantilever bridge is highly durable, and they have a survival rate of 81.8% after 18 years.
Learn More About Cantilever Tooth Bridges
There are many things to learn about a cantilever tooth bridge. It’s a good thing the doctors of Affordable Smiles are always willing to help their patients understand every aspect of the treatment they need. Reach out to us today to learn more.