A cantilever bridge (dental) is a type of fixed dental prosthesis used to replace a missing tooth, but unlike a traditional bridge, it is supported on only one side.
🦷 What it means
In a normal dental bridge, the false tooth (pontic) is held in place by crowns on both adjacent teeth.
In a cantilever bridge, the pontic is anchored to just one natural tooth next to the gap.
🔧 Structure
Abutment tooth: The single supporting tooth
Crown: Placed over the abutment tooth
Pontic: The artificial tooth that replaces the missing one
👍 When it is used
Dentists may recommend a cantilever bridge when:
There is only one adjacent tooth available
The missing tooth is in an area with less biting force (like front teeth)
The patient cannot or does not want an implant
⚠️ Advantages
Requires less tooth preparation (only one tooth involved)
Simpler and sometimes more affordable than implants
Good option when only one support tooth exists
❗ Disadvantages
Uneven force distribution (all pressure on one tooth)
Higher risk of:
Tooth damage
Bridge loosening
Fracture over time
Not ideal for back teeth where chewing forces are strong
🆚 Compared to other options
Traditional bridge: Supported on both sides → more stable
Dental implant: Independent support → most durable, but costly
