There are three main types of dental bridges: traditional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges. Each is described in more detail below, as well as a section to reveal the differences between them and the indications for using each type of dental bridge.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
Traditional fixed bridges create a filling tooth that is supported by crowns placed over healthy teeth on either side of the gap in the mouth to keep the bridge in place. This is the most common type of bridge and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
This type of bridge is used to replace missing teeth where there are healthy teeth on either side of the gap that can support a bridge between them. Both of these teeth will need to be reshaped and fitted with crowns before the bridge is placed to ensure they are strong enough to support the bridge.
Preparation of Connecting Fixed-fixed Bridge. Image credit: RCB Shooter / Shutterstock
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges can be used when there are no teeth on one side of the missing tooth where the bridge can be attached, so only one side supports the bridge with a healthy tooth and crown.
This is also indicated for certain clinical situations when there are no teeth on either side of the missing teeth. Again, a situation may arise when it is not desirable to prepare the teeth on both sides for a crown for aesthetic reasons, for example, if an anterior tooth is on one side of the missing tooth. It is also used if the back tooth is missing. Additionally, if the abutment already supports another prosthetic restoration, it may not be able to support a traditional fixed bridge.
Cantilever bridges are designed for the pontoon to be outside the abutment teeth. Increased off-axis forces were involved to act on the abutment tooth and support the pontic. As a result, their placement must be carefully planned to reduce the risk of destabilizing the abutment teeth.
Cantilever Tooth Bridge – Roseville Dentist
Maryland Bonded Bridges
Bonded Maryland bridges, also known as resin bonded bridges, are commonly used to replace front teeth.
They are made of metal frame with porcelain fused with metal teeth.
The bridge is attached to the adjacent healthy teeth with metal or porcelain wings on either side of the bridge, which are attached behind the adjacent teeth.
The Maryland bridge is a more conservative alternative to the traditional fixed bridge because it does not require reshaping and placement of crowns on adjacent teeth. Instead, the metal wings fit behind the support teeth.
Dentist – Maryland Bridge Procedure
Uses of different types of dental bridges
Each type of dental bridge is intended for a specific purpose. All are used to replace a missing tooth, but each has certain characteristics that make it preferable for certain situations.
The traditional fixed bridge is preferred in most cases because it offers the most strength for the bridge, from supporting teeth on either side of the pontic. However, if there is no place to attach the bridge to one side of the gap, a cantilever bridge may need to be used. This uses off-axis forces on the support tooth to support the mouse on one side only. Finally, a bonded Maryland bridge may be the best choice for abutment teeth that are highly visible, such as those in the front of the mouth. With this type of bridge, there is no need to reshape the tooth and attach a crown because the bridge can be attached to the back of the abutment teeth.
