Cantilever Dental Bridges in Tacoma, WA

Please note we may not offer this service at our office. Call (253) 761-5422 to learn more. 

Restore Your Smile with Cantilever Dental Bridges

Missing teeth can significantly affect your confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. Cantilever dental bridges are a unique solution, providing a reliable tooth replacement option for individuals with specific dental needs. Unlike traditional dental bridges, cantilever bridges rely on support from only one adjacent tooth, offering a practical and cost-effective alternative when other solutions aren’t feasible.

Our Tacoma, WA, dentist is here to guide you through your cantilever dental bridge options, helping you achieve a full, healthy smile.

What Are Cantilever Dental Bridges?

A cantilever dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace missing teeth when there’s only one tooth adjacent to the gap. While traditional bridges require support from teeth on both sides of the gap, a cantilever bridge anchors to just one tooth called the abutment tooth.

Cantilever bridges are often made from durable materials such as ceramic or ceramic fused with metal. They’re commonly used to replace single missing teeth, particularly in the front of the mouth, where bite force is less intense. 

Benefits of Cantilever Dental Bridges

Cantilever dental bridges offer several key advantages for patients looking for efficient, minimally invasive tooth replacement options:

• Minimal Tooth Preparation: Only the adjacent tooth supporting the bridge is prepared, preserving more of your natural tooth structure compared to other dental restorations.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Cantilever bridges are often more affordable than dental implant-supported bridges, making them a budget-friendly option for many patients.
• Preservation of Tooth Integrity: With less modification to surrounding teeth, the risk of damaging healthy teeth is minimized.
• Quick Recovery: The procedure is less invasive, resulting in minimal healing time and a faster return to normal oral function.
• Effective for Specific Situations: Cantilever bridges are ideal when there’s only one adjacent tooth available for support or when traditional dental bridges aren’t a viable option.

The Cantilever Dental Bridge Process

Here’s what you can expect during the cantilever dental bridge procedure with your dentist:

1. Initial Consultation

Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if a cantilever bridge is the right choice. Factors such as the strength of the adjacent tooth, the size of the gap, and the condition of your gums will be assessed.

2. Treatment Planning

A detailed plan will be created, outlining the bridge design, materials, and procedure steps to ensure a personalized approach.

3. Tooth Preparation

The adjacent supporting tooth is prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make space for the bridge.

4. Impressions and Temporary Bridge Placement

Impressions are taken to create a custom cantilever bridge that matches your natural teeth. While your permanent bridge is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared tooth.

5. Bridge Fabrication and Placement

Once the permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will carefully bond it to the abutment tooth using durable dental cement. Adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit and proper alignment.

Is a Cantilever Dental Bridge Right for You?

You may benefit from a cantilever dental bridge if:

• You have a single missing tooth with only one adjacent tooth available for support.
• The adjacent tooth strength is sufficient to anchor the bridge.
• You’re looking for a cost-effective, minimally invasive tooth replacement option.
• You have healthy teeth and gums free of decay or gum disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Tooth Replacement Options in Tacoma, WA

Cantilever dental bridges are a versatile solution for specific tooth replacement challenges, offering a streamlined procedure and excellent results. If you’re considering restoring your smile, contact our Tacoma dental office today at (253) 761-5422.

We proudly serve patients from Tacoma, Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place, helping them find their perfect tooth replacement solution.