The Cantilever Dental Bridge

The Cantilever Bridge shares the same foundational concept as a traditional bridge but with one key difference: it is anchored to only one adjacent tooth rather than two. The replacement tooth, or pontic, extends across the gap, supported solely from one side, much like a diving board supported by a single pillar.

This type of bridge is ideal for cases where a missing tooth has only one suitable neighboring tooth to serve as support. The pontic is attached to a crown placed on this single abutment tooth, allowing for a fixed restoration without altering multiple teeth.

Indications:

Replacement of a single missing tooth, particularly in the front of the mouth where chewing forces are lower.
When there is no adjacent tooth on one side of the space (e.g., the last tooth in the arch).
Patients seeking a non-surgical alternative to an implant.

Patient Suitability Considerations:
Not every mouth allows for a traditional bridge, and this is where the cantilever option can be a practical and patient-centered choice. In some cases, the tooth on one side of the space may already have a healthy, intact crown that shouldn’t be removed just to accommodate a traditional three-unit bridge. Removing an existing, well-fitting crown carries a significant risk of damaging the underlying tooth structure or even fracturing the tooth entirely during the removal process.

In other instances, the tooth on the other side of the gap may be structurally compromised due to decay, large fillings, or previous root canal therapy, making it unsuitable for use as an abutment. Financial considerations can also play a role. A two-unit cantilever bridge may be a more affordable option for patients unable to pursue a more extensive restoration such as a three-unit bridge or an implant.

Contraindications:

Heavy biting or grinding forces (bruxism).
Replacement of molars or posterior teeth, where stress forces are greatest.
Weak or mobile abutment teeth.

History & Key Point:
While structurally less balanced than a traditional bridge, the cantilever design remains valuable when used in carefully selected cases. Modern adhesive cements and precision crown designs have improved its strength and predictability, especially in low-stress anterior regions.

Fun Fact:
The term cantilever originates from engineering — it describes a beam supported at only one end, a principle seen in bridge design and even modern architecture.

FAQ Highlights:

Is it safe? Yes, when used judiciously in the right location and under light chewing forces.
Why choose it over an implant? It avoids surgery, shortens treatment time, and can be a cost-effective, fixed alternative when an implant or full bridge isn’t feasible.