When it comes to dental care and replacing missing teeth, you might not think of engineering. But innovations continually push the design and performance of new products crafted to meet the needs of people who have missing teeth. Among these remarkable advancements, cantilever bridges are a lesser known but unique option to consider. Cantilever bridges are a special type of prosthesis that is supported on just one side rather than both ends like other types of dental bridges. Its one-of-a-kind design serves a specific purpose that other bridges can’t.
At Sachem Dental Group in Long Island, NY, Suffolk County, we take pride in our expertise in providing top-tier cantilever bridges as well as traditional bridge designs, giving you a reason to smile confidently once again. Our team of skilled dentists provides you with personalized care, offering treatment alternatives that some people have never heard about.
Cantilever Bridges vs. Traditional Bridges
Understanding the nuances of different dental bridge types is key to making an informed decision about replacing missing teeth. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge that we create. They are typically supported by a tooth on either side of a gap in your smile. This design requires a structurally sound tooth in that location, in order to suspend the artificial “pontic” tooth over the open space.
Cantilever bridges, on the other hand, require support on only one side of the missing tooth. This is especially advantageous when there is no suitable tooth on one side of the open space. For example, if the very back tooth is missing, there is no way to suspend a traditional bridge in that area. But with a cantilever bridge, we can use the healthy tooth or teeth in front of the missing one and create a pontic tooth that extends backward off the end of the bridge.
Cantilever bridges find their niche in dental restoration when adjacent teeth are lacking, making traditional bridges impractical. Their abutment teeth on one side provide sufficient support for the missing tooth, while also reinforcing the structure of the supporting teeth (for instance, when those teeth need full coverage crowns.)
At Sachem Dental Group in Long Island, NY, we assess each patient’s unique situation to determine which type of bridges offer the best solution, ensuring personalized care and optimal results.
Cantilever Bridge Placement
The placement of cantilever bridges is a meticulously orchestrated procedure that involves precision and experience. Our Long Island dentists bring years of experience to the table, ensuring that the treatment process is as smooth and predictable as possible for our valued patients.
The first step to getting a cantilever bridge involves an in-depth examination, including digital imaging, to assess the overall condition of your oral health and to determine the viability of a cantilever bridge in your case. Once the green light is given, the next phases include preparation of the abutment tooth, taking impressions, and crafting a custom bridge tailored to your unique needs. This visit is performed with local anesthetic (numbing medication) to ensure your comfort at all times. It’s quite similar to a traditional bridge or crown prep appointment if you’ve had a similar treatment performed. Our commitment to utilizing state-of-the-art technology guarantees that every bridge we create seamlessly blends with your existing teeth, both in appearance and function.
After your supporting teeth are prepared, we’ll place temporary crowns over them to prevent any sensitivity. In the meantime, our lab will create your custom cantilever bridge as directed. They may be porcelain and matched to your smile or even crafted from a metal material if those teeth are not highly visible.
Advantages of Cantilever Bridges
The advantages of choosing cantilever bridges make them a great solution for people who have a missing back tooth or don’t otherwise qualify for (or need) dental implants. In addition to replacing your missing tooth, cantilever bridges include additional advantages, such as the following:
Reinforcing Teeth That Need Crowns:
One of the most significant advantages of cantilever bridges is their ability to reinforce healthy adjacent teeth. If those teeth are heavily restored, chances are they will eventually need a dental crown. This conservation-oriented approach not only promotes overall oral health but also minimizes the need for additional treatments.
Aesthetic Harmony:
The aesthetics of a smile are of paramount importance, impacting confidence and self-assurance. Cantilever bridges excel in seamlessly blending with your natural teeth, ensuring a harmonious appearance that feels comfortable all day long. With the skilled techniques of our Long Island dentists, you can expect a smile that radiates confidence.
Functional Excellence:
Beyond appearance, cantilever bridges are engineered for functionality. Whether it’s biting into your favorite foods or enunciating clearly while speaking, these bridges offer optimal performance. Our commitment to precision ensures that your cantilever bridge feels comfortable and performs similarly to a traditional bridge.
Tailored Solutions:
Every person’s smile is unique, and so are the solutions we offer. Cantilever bridges can be tailored to your specific needs, accommodating variations in tooth size, shape, and alignment. This personalization guarantees that your bridge not only restores your smile but also enhances it.
Durability and Longevity:
Cantilever bridges are built to last as long as other dental crowns and bridges. Crafted from high-quality materials, they are designed to withstand the demands of daily life while maintaining their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over time. With proper care and regular check-ups at Sachem Dental Group, your cantilever bridge can offer you years of reliable service. Be sure to follow our home care recommendations to preserve the stability of your cantilever bridge.
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Sachem Dental Group in Long Island, NY, Suffolk County, your dental health and satisfaction are our top priorities. Cantilever bridges represent a testament to the marvels of both dental science and engineering ingenuity. With their ability to preserve healthy teeth, harmonize with your natural appearance, and provide seamless functionality, they stand as an exceptional choice for those seeking dental restoration.
Our experienced dentists in Suffolk County are dedicated to providing you with the finest in cantilever bridge solutions, backed by our experience, advanced technology, and a commitment to your well-being. Regain your confidence and restore your smile—schedule your visit today!