Cantilever Dental Bridge is a common procedure used to replace missing teeth and is an alternative to other dental bridges. It is anchored on only one side, making it more stable than traditional dental bridges.
The cantilever bridge is placed over the existing abutment tooth and can span up to four teeth. This type of bridge prevents the need for forming crowns over healthy teeth which makes it a cost-effective option for many patients.
The cantilever bridge requires two visits for placement; the first visit involves preparing the abutment tooth, taking impressions, and fitting a temporary bridge.
During the second visit, your dentist will fit the permanent bridge in place and make any necessary adjustments.
The entire process usually takes around 2 weeks from start to finish and regular visits to the dentist are recommended for check-ups and regular cleaning.
The cantilever bridge is a great solution for those looking to replace missing teeth with a reliable and cost-effective option.
It’s important that patients maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing regularly, in order to ensure the longevity of their dental bridges.
With proper care, your cantilever bridge can last up to 8 years or more. Talk to your dentist about the most suitable bridge option for you.
In this article by Marina Shraga, she has outlined the cantilever dental bridges: types, benefits, use case, and costs.
pic by docshop.com
10 Things You Should Know About Cantilever Dental Bridge
- A cantilever dental bridge is used when the abutment tooth (the tooth that supports the bridge) is present on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth
A cantilever bridge is basically a fixed bridge that is permanently attached to only one tooth. In a conventional bridge, the pontic (artificial false tooth) is placed in the center of the dental bridge with a crown on either side.
It is designed to fit over the two abutment teeth (adjacent teeth supporting the bridge at the center). However, in some cases, the abutment teeth required to support the false tooth/teeth via crowns are not available on both sides of the gap.
In this situation, the false tooth is affixed over the tooth on the only available side. So, the dentist will only crown the one abutment tooth available. This single crown will provide the support needed for the entire restoration.
- A cantilever bridge is not recommended for restoring the back teeth
Because a cantilever dental bridge holds the false tooth only from one end, it may not provide enough support for the large grinding teeth in the back.
The back teeth (molars) bear most of the force of a person’s bite and a cantilever dental bridge placed at the back would be put under too much pressure by the forces in chewing, which could see it become damaged or collapse.
It is typically recommended for replacing a missing tooth in the front or middle of the mouth (when the missing tooth is either a lateral incisor or a premolar.
- A cantilever dental bridge is typically indicated in situations where only one tooth is missing
Though dental bridges are often indicated for patients with 2-3 missing teeth, a cantilever bridge is advisable only when one tooth is missing. If two or more teeth are missing, a longer cantilever bridge will likely collapse.
But this doesn’t mean that this type of dental bridge cannot be used to treat patients who have two teeth missing. Some dentists actually use it to restore two missing teeth. It all depends on the individual case and the material to be used in the bridge.
Partial dentures are usually recommended if a patient does have three or more teeth missing, while complete dentures are the most preferred option in cases where all of a patient’s teeth are missing.
- Virtually anyone who has one tooth missing is a candidate for a cantilever dental bridge
Anyone with one tooth missing can use this type of dental bridge to restore their teeth. The most important thing here is to have a healthy tooth on one side of the gap to support the crown and the false teeth.
If the abutment tooth has a crack, chip or other minor imperfection, it can still be prepared to support the bridge. As long as the tooth next to the gap is structurally sound, it can serve as the foundation for a cantilever bridge.
However, if a patient has a serious condition such as gum disease, then the dentist must first address the problem before placing this type of bridge or any other dental appliance, for that matter.
- A cantilever bridge is aesthetically pleasing and a great way to restore smile
Unlike bonded bridges, which utilize metal clasps to fuse to healthy teeth via a type of resin, this type of bridge doesn’t have metal bands and this gives it a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
It is crafted to look, feel, and function like a natural tooth and it can even be used to cover irregularities in a patient’s smile.
- A cantilever bridge comes in various types of dental alloys
Like other types of bridges, a cantilever bridge can be constructed using any one of a number of different types of dental alloys – precious, semi-precious or non-precious. The bridge can be all-metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal.
That means patients have a choice when it comes to installation, and one can choose a bridge that fits their preferences, budget, and dental plan.
- A cantilever bridge is a cheaper option for replacing a missing tooth
Though a dental implant offers a more effective way to replace missing tooth, not everyone can afford the high cost associated with this procedure.
A cantilever dental bridge is much cheaper than having an implant placed, and is particularly ideal for situations where a dental implant cannot be used such as situations where there’s bone loss or damage.
- A cantilever dental bridge can range in cost from $700 to $1,300 per artificial tooth
Though most cantilever bridges have only one artificial tooth and a crown permanently attached to the abutment tooth, some dentists may use this type of bridge to replace two missing teeth.
A cantilever bridge with two pontics will obviously cost more than a bridge with only one pontic. Nonetheless, the cost of a cantilever dental bridge will depend on several factors including the material used, the fabrication process, the complexity of the treatment, geographic location, the specific dentist, and any additional treatments required.
- A cantilever dental bridge can last up to 10 years, and sometimes longer, with good oral hygiene
Typically, cantilever dental bridges, like other bridges, last about 5 – 7 years. The average life expectancy depends on the type of material used to make the bridge. Certain types can last even over a decade, with the potential to last a lifetime.
- It is important to maintain good oral hygiene after having a cantilever dental bridge installed
Sugary and sticky foods can get stuck under the cantilever bridge pontic, which replaces the missing tooth, causing the gums and teeth to become affected by plaque, oral infections and/or other dental problems.
Regular blushing and flossing prevents the buildup of food, plaque, bacteria and the problems these can cause. Professional dental cleanings (at least twice a year) are also necessary.
As well as maintaining proper dental care, eating tooth friendly foods and avoiding those hard food items that put stress on the bridge will help prolong its lifespan.
This type of dental bridge is worth the time and expense involved in having it placed, just as long as the patient looks after it. With proper care, one can restore and enjoy a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
FAQ
Why is a dental cantilever bridge not recommended?
How long does a cantilever bridge last?
What are the disadvantages of dental bridges?
- Once the bridge is fitted, the adjacent teeth that hold the bridge in place may become damaged.
- A risk of decay is present if the crowns over the abutting teeth are ill-fitting (from allowing bacteria and plaque underneath the crowns)
- The crowns may change the structure of the teeth.
What are the pros and cons of a dental bridge?
How much does a cantilever dental bridge cost?
Which is better dental implant or bridge?
How does a cantilever dental bridge work?
Can dental bridge damage teeth?
Availability of Cantilever Dental Bridge Treatment
Are you considering getting a dental bridge and aren’t sure what type of bridge to choose? Let me tell you about the benefits of a cantilever dental bridge! This type of bridge is a great option if you only have one natural tooth on the side of the gap that needs to be filled. Cantilever bridges use a single abutment tooth as the anchoring tooth to support the entire bridge, making it a more conservative option than traditional bridges that require two abutment teeth.
One of the biggest benefits of a cantilever bridge is that it provides a permanent solution to missing teeth. You won’t have to worry about removing the bridge for cleaning or accidentally misplacing it while eating. The bridge is designed to look and feel just like natural teeth, and with proper care and maintenance, it can last a lifetime.
Another benefit of this type of bridge is that it’s a relatively quick and painless procedure. Unlike dental implants, which require several appointments over the course of several months, a cantilever bridge can be installed in just one or two appointments. Plus, the procedure is minimally invasive and typically only requires local anesthesia.
Overall, if you’re looking for a permanent, low-maintenance solution to missing teeth, a cantilever dental bridge may be the right choice for you. However, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs and circumstances.
Availability of Cantilever Dental Bridge Treatment
Are you considering getting a dental bridge and aren’t sure what type of bridge to choose? Let me tell you about the benefits of a cantilever dental bridge! This type of bridge is a great option if you only have one natural tooth on the side of the gap that needs to be filled. Cantilever bridges use a single abutment tooth as the anchoring tooth to support the entire bridge, making it a more conservative option than traditional bridges that require two abutment teeth.
One of the biggest benefits of a cantilever bridge is that it provides a permanent solution to missing teeth. You won’t have to worry about removing the bridge for cleaning or accidentally misplacing it while eating. The bridge is designed to look and feel just like natural teeth, and with proper care and maintenance, it can last a lifetime.
Another benefit of this type of bridge is that it’s a relatively quick and painless procedure. Unlike dental implants, which require several appointments over the course of several months, a cantilever bridge can be installed in just one or two appointments. Plus, the procedure is minimally invasive and typically only requires local anesthesia.
Overall, if you’re looking for a permanent, low-maintenance solution to missing teeth, a cantilever dental bridge may be the right choice for you. However, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs and circumstances.
Thank you Dr Schraga for this blog and this information. I am going to have a cantilever bridge fitted for a premolar that was extracted because it was too damaged. I wonder if a molar would be strong enough to support the premolar. I’m too scared that my molar is going to come off too. I hope that will not be the case and that I made a good choice.
I got my canteliever bridge for two back molars attached to one molar on that side and to my third molar on the left side.Even soft food misplace the bridge which feels loose. should I wait to get used to it?
Dental Bridge Cost? HOW MUCH is a 4 tooth top font bridge??
I paid under $2000 the last two times and they booth lasted over 10 years, moreover look perfect.
My insurance pays up to half up to a max of $1,500.
My new dentist wants $700 a tooth for $2,800.
Is that a good deal? What is the going price in and out of USA?
Hi! Be glad your not in the NYC/NJ area. That bridge would cost you at least 6000.00. Some dentists charge as much as 2500.00 per a unit. Get it while you can!! Most Ins. here don’t even pay half.
does anyone have a dental bridge? i have a missing tooth and have been measured for a bridge so am currently wearing a temporary cap on one of my teeth. when i go back will i need another numbing injection to get the bridge fitted on? and how has ur experience of having a bridge been?! any problems? etc
hi, i have two bridges both to fill one gap each
when mine was fitted i did not get a numbing injection
the dentist took his time to fit it to make sure its strong and it holds
mine is ok i have no problems with them at all
just make sure you brush your teeth regularly and my dentist also adviced me to use super floss its specialy made to clean around bridges
Should I be worried about getting a dental bridge?
one of my teeth broke very badly and is beyond repair, and I will be getting what is left of it extracted and getting a bridge. I am very worried about how it will feel and look. To anyone who has had a dental bridge, does it feel normal, or does it feel very noticeable that one of your teeth is missing? also will there be any changes to my facial structure as a result? I ve heard that getting teeth pulled can result in facial collapse, is this something I should be worried about?
A bridge is a fusion of several permanently cemented crowns that bridges the gap created when teeth are lost. A removable partial denture is replacement teeth that can be taken out whenever you want (what amy lynn described).
If crafted properly, the bridge feels almost like teeth (surface texture is slightly different) but you will adapt to that with no effort in no time and won’t even think about it. Because it is a front tooth and the tip of the tongue touches that during speech formation, down at the gum line it will feel different but again, in no time it will be the new normal.
Because it is a front tooth, make sure that the color matches your other teeth at the try in stage. Get on the same page with your dentist with a dialogue about this.
What is a dental bridge?
It is a procedure in which an artificial tooth is fixed to replace the missing tooth typically with the support of the adjacent teeth which are used to place the crown. The bridge restores your bite and helps keep the natural shape of your face. The bridge is made up of two crowns, one on each tooth on either side of the gap. Either natural teeth or dental implants support dental bridges. It is a solution when you have lost a tooth, or when you have a gap that is causing your other teeth to become loose. This replacement tooth will fill in space where something is missing, creating a natural appearance while helping to restore the tooth.
The need for Bridge
1. Restore a confident smile:
If you have a missing tooth, especially in the visible area, you may feel self-conscious and embarrassed. People may notice the gap often. So, bridging will be matched to the shade of the nearby teeth. It looks like the natural one.
2. Restore the ability to chew correctly:
A significant factor in having a gap between teeth decreases the ability to eat certain foods. You will have the foods you ‘can’ eat rather than the foods you ‘want’ to eat. A bridge can restore the function of a natural tooth. It will help to restore the ability to chew correctly.
3. Maintain the shape of your face:
As the gap forms in the mouth, remaining teeth start to move into the place. This changes the jaw alignment. Hence the face shape can change. To stop this negative change to happen, dental bridges are a suitable alternative.
4. Speech problems:
Your speech can be affected by gaps in your teeth. Pronouncing some words clearly can be difficult if you have a gap between teeth. You may also start spitting a little when you talk. However, fixing a bridge in the gap will help to replace the normal function.
5. Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position:
Are you aware that gap may lead to teeth mispositioning? As soon as you have a gap in your mouth, the adjacent teeth may begin to move into space. This may lead to teeth being out of their normal position, which can make them difficult to clean and so more risk from decay and gum disease.
Benefits of dental bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits. This simple procedure provides an appealing cosmetic result that eliminates the space and creates a uniform, beautiful smile. When you have one or more missing teeth, you can also suffer from problems with biting and chewing. Replacing the teeth with bridges will eliminate any issues you might experience when you’re eating. A missing tooth can also impact your speech, so filling it in with a fake tooth will allow you to speak normally.
With the right treatment, a missing or damaged tooth doesn’t have to impact the look of your smile or the overall condition of your mouth. Dental bridges offer several advantages, so if your dentist recommends this treatment for your health, it’s an excellent option.
Very helpful information. Thanks for sharing.