Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used on the areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth. Compared to other normal dental bridges which need to be attached to both surrounding teeth, cantilever bridges are designed to attach just to the one natural tooth beside the bridge. It involves anchoring the false tooth to one side of the natural, adjacent teeth. If no adjacent teeth are present as anchors, the dentist may recommend an implant. This implant is a metal post that is surgically imbedded into the bone and is capped with a crown to act as an abutment.

To fully understand the purpose of the cantilever bridges and how it work, it is important to know what a normal dental bridge is. In dental bridges false tooth or a pontic is used to replace a missing tooth. Attached to the teeth are two crowns on both sides of the false tooth that holds it in place. This fixed bridge cannot be removed out as compared to other removable partial dentures.

Several benefits are obtained by the use of cantilever bridges. It helps to correct some bite issues, reduce the risk of gum disease, or may even improve speech. A good feature of this type of dental procedure is that it appears natural after the surgery. But it is common for the teeth to be mildly sensitive to extreme temperatures for a several weeks after the treatment was done.

It is important to have a good oral hygiene after having these dental bridges placed. Remember to brush the teeth every after meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and with fluoride toothpaste. For the hard to reach places between the bridges and its adjacent teeth, flossing would help. Visit the dentist every six months for inspection and having it cleaned because the longevity of the bridge depends on how a good oral hygiene is maintained.