Dental BridgesA dental bridge is an excellent solution for one or more missing teeth.  A series of dental crowns are fused together, with an artificial tooth, or pontic, replacing the missing tooth.  In general, bridges replace only one or two missing teeth and dentists do not consider them suitable for larger gaps. Because each dental crown is cemented to the adjacent teeth, the false tooth rests perfectly in the space where the missing tooth was.  Stable and permanent, dental bridges literally “bridge the gap” and look just like your real teeth!

A cantilever bridge is very similar to a traditional bridge, except that it’s attached to one or two of the side teeth, typically because there is no tooth on the other side, or in areas of mouth that are under less stress, and in this case, the artificial tooth is supported from just one end.  A cantilever dental bridge often uses the same number of dental crowns, but with a different layout:  The abutment crowns are placed next to each other, with the pontic placed on the end.  In some cases, only one support tooth with a dental crown is needed, when the cantilever bridge requires minimal support.

Why choose a cantilever bridge?

They are as stable as a traditional bridge, and there are several situations where they are an ideal solution:

  • a traditional dental bridge or dental implants aren’t available
  • abutment teeth are present on only one side of the missing tooth
  • sometimes a good solution for front teeth
  • it is not aesthetically desirable to crown the teeth on both sides of the breach
  • one of the abutment teeth is already supporting another prosthetic restoration
  • no metal clasps are used to secure the bridge to teeth, for a more pleasing appearance

The most favorable placement is towards the front of the mouth, with support from teeth behind, because chewing pressures are the least at the front:  chewing forces increase incrementally more towards the back.

In addition to the type of bridge, the material used on the bridge and the artificial teeth is an important consideration.  The most common materials used are porcelain, ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal. These materials are strong and resemble the natural color of teeth.  Other options are gold or titanium, depending on your preferences and needs.

Dental bridges of all types are used to give you back your smile and self-confidence. They also restore your ability to chew properly, and in some cases, your speech. They help reduce or eliminate trapped food particles in the gaps or around healthy teeth, thus reducing the chances of tooth decay.

Like other bridges, the cantilever dental bridge can last up to 10 years with proper oral hygiene and dental care.

If you are interested in cantilever bridges in Costa Rica, fill out the “Find a Dentist” form on this page.  One of our patient advocates will reply to your needs.