What is the rational in using a cantilever bridge in dentistry?

Question

As opposed to implants, or conventional FPD?

Furthermore, what's its advantage using a double abutment: cut just as many teeth?

Answer 1

I have probably done less than 10 cantilever bridges in 30 years. Maybe less than 5. The only place I see it as a valid treatment option would be where the cantilever will be OUT OF FUNCTION. One example would be if the patient was missing all of the upper molars on one side and the lower molars as well. If the patient had a broad smile, the missing first molar would be obvious. If you cantilever a molar pontic off of a double-abutted bridge (using both premolars), it would fill that space and be rather unlikely to be dislodged due to chewing forces torquing the bridge, since there is nothing on the bottom. This is less invasive than placing an implant and almost infinitely less expensive.

Answer 2

Its a bridge that is fixed on one end. You can show someone walking a plank (bridge to nowhere) or walking on diving board. I was going to suggest A knight in shining armor, on a draw bridge, but the supports are all wrong. The bridge is supported at the hinge, which allows the bridge to pivot, and chains or ropes which raise and lower the bridge offer additional support. Show two bridges connected in the middle with a hinge, so you travel from one cantilevered bridge to another. (The hinge in the middle is designed so each side is independently supported. Check out the web site suggested above.

Answer 3

I wouldn't recommend a cantilever bridge. Dentists have stopped practicing this method of restoration because it causes periodontal problems (gum disease). It also causes unfavorable forces to be applied to the tooth where the cantilever bridge is utilized from.
If oral hygiene is good, and finances permittable, I would recommend an implant in the missing tooth area. An FPD would be good if you have two adjacent teeth around the missing tooth.

Answer 4

The only teeth I believe can be cantilevered are the upper lateral incisors (2nd from the front).
If you are missing only 1 lateral incisor, then you can safely cantilever off the adjacent canine.
If you are missing both lateral incisors, then construct a 4-unit bridge for both laterals cantilvered off the central incisors.
Whether this is a good idea for your situation compared to other options would depend on a number of factors. You would need an examination

Answer 5

it will prevent carving of a healthy sound tooth to be an abutment .......to lower the cost on the patient ....etc.good luck