If you have missing teeth or gaps seen throughout your mouth that have been caused by decayed or fallen teeth, a cantilever bridge may be a good option for you. When you have these spaces, partaking in daily life tasks such as eating or smiling can be difficult and cause you to feel self-conscious. With a bridge, these issues dissipate and allow you to feel normal and capable again. In general, a dental bridge is a single or set of false teeth that replace missing teeth or fill in any gaps between any of your teeth. The pontic, which is an artificial tooth, is typically made of porcelain. A cantilever bridge operates in the same way as a dental bridge does, as it is one form of a dental bridge.
What is a Cantilever Bridge?
A cantilever bridge is a type of dental bridge procedure that connects isolated teeth. It is very similar to a traditional dental bridge in that they fill gaps in teeth, but with a cantilever bridge, it only needs to be supported on one side. This means that if there is only one of your natural teeth available next to the missing section, a bridge can still be properly placed and secured. In the cantilever procedure, the pontic is held in place by a dental crown on the adjacent tooth. This is because the tooth needs to be as strong as possible, since it is only supported on its one side. Cantilever bridges, compared to other various types of dental bridges, are beneficial in that you only need one tooth for the bridge to function properly. This means that if you’re missing back teeth or only want some teeth filled in, the procedure can be completed smoothly. Additionally, this form of a bridge straightens your teeth and improves the overall function. This procedure is primarily performed on lesser stressed dental areas.
Cantilever Bridge Procedure
A cantilever dental bridge procedure is usually performed in two steps. During your first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth being connected with the bridge with a crown. For this, you will be given local anesthetics so your mouth will be numb for the procedure, meaning you won’t feel any pain. The dentist will then use small instruments to remove decay and the enamel layer from the tooth and prepare it for the crown. To ensure the fit is designed custom for your mouth, the dentist will take a mold of your jaw impression and send it to a dental laboratory, where they will craft the custom cap and cantilever bridge for you. Typically, the dentist will use a temporary bridge to cover the area for the next visit, which is when you will receive your cantilever bridge. On the second visit, the cap is placed on the tooth and once approved, the dentist will seal the crown and cantilever bridge to the other surrounding teeth. At this time, if any adjustments are necessary, your dentist will adjust the bridge. Your dentist may recommend that you do not eat or drink anything for up to an hour after the procedure.
Visit Teach Dental Group
When you first notice that you have problems with gaps in your teeth, it’s best to contact your dentist as soon as possible. There, they can discuss options for dental bridges with you, such as a cantilever bridge. If you qualify, you can begin treatment almost immediately. Remember, in order to prevent needing a dental bridge due to decay and tooth loss, maintain your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Don’t live in discomfort or self-consciousness and maintain your oral condition to the best of your ability.
If you or a loved one is dealing with oral pain and are considering a cantilever bridge, contact Teach Dental Group to arrange your free consultation. We welcome the opportunity to put a smile on your face!
