Dental bridges offer a conventional and effective solution when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Cantilever dental bridges are one of the various types available to patients with neighboring teeth on just one side of the lost tooth or teeth. However, at Zara Dental in Houston, Texas, we believe in educating our patients about their dental care options. This includes the limitations and considerations associated with cantilever dental bridges. In this blog, we will examine why cantilever dental bridges may only sometimes be the best option for tooth replacement.
Understanding Cantilever Dental Bridges.
Before considering its limitations, let’s start with an overview of cantilever dental bridges. Unlike typical bridges, supported by crowns on either side of the missing tooth, dentists anchor cantilever dental bridges to one adjacent tooth. This design may be effective when no teeth are on one side of the gap or the adjacent teeth are insufficient to support a bridge.
The Drawbacks of Cantilever Dental Bridges
Increased Risk of Complications
One of the most common concerns about cantilever dental bridges is the increased risk of problems. Because the bridge is supported by only one tooth, it causes increased stress on that tooth. Over time, this might cause tooth fracture, bridge loosening, or even loss of the supporting tooth due to the excessive strain exerted on it.
Limited Longevity
Cantilever dental bridges are frequently less durable than traditional bridges. Excessive pressure on the single supporting tooth might hasten wear and tear, potentially leading to bridge failure sooner. This makes replacements necessary more frequently, which can be expensive and inconvenient for the patient.
Aesthetic Concerns
While cantilever dental bridges may eventually compromise aesthetic outcomes due to stability concerns, they can still produce aesthetically appealing results in some cases. For example, a loose or shifting bridge might cause an uneven appearance or gaps between the bridge and natural teeth. Such issues might necessitate additional dental work, further adding to the patient’s expenses and discomfort.
Not Suitable for All Cases
Cantilever dental bridges are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. They are often indicated for missing teeth in the front of the mouth, where biting forces are lower. However, they may not be suitable for missing molars or when there is a significant bite force involved because of the greater risk of damaging the supporting tooth.
Alternatives to Cantilever Dental Bridges
Given the possible downsides of cantilever dental bridges, examining other tooth replacement options is vital. Zara Dental frequently offers dental implants as a more durable and long-term treatment. Dental implants do not rely on surrounding teeth for support; thus, there is no chance of damaging them. They can also provide a more natural appearance and feel, improving your smile’s functionality and aesthetics.
Depending on the patient’s particular needs and dental health, a traditional fixed bridge or removable partial dentures could also be an option. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, so a thorough examination and consultation with our dental professionals is essential for making the right decision for oral health.
Final Thoughts
While cantilever dental bridges may be a viable alternative in certain instances, their limitations make them less desirable than other tooth restoration methods. At Zara Dental in Houston, Texas, we prioritize providing our patients with the most suitable, effective, and safe dental treatments.
We encourage anyone considering a cantilever dental bridge to discuss their situation with us. We can explore all available options and choose the best course of action for their dental health. Remember that the goal is not only to replace missing teeth but to do it in a way that promotes long-term health, function, and satisfaction.
