Cantilever Dental Bridges in Knoxville, TN
Please note: We may not provide this exact service at our dental office. Contact us at (865) 687-8670 to learn more.
Replace Missing Teeth at Fountain City Smiles
If you’re dealing with a missing tooth and looking for a reliable solution, our Knoxville dentist can help you explore modern dental bridges—including cantilever bridges, a unique restorative option designed for specific cases. Unlike traditional bridges, which are supported by dental crowns on both sides of a gap, a cantilever dental bridge is anchored to only one adjacent tooth. This cantilever design can be ideal in unique situations, especially for missing front teeth where chewing forces are lighter.
At Fountain City Smiles, we want you to have a smile you love. While we may not offer this service directly, our dental team can walk you through your tooth replacement options, whether that’s a permanent bridge, dental implants, Maryland bridges, or even removable partial dentures.
Call us today at (865) 687-8670 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Niral Patel, a dentist in Knoxville, TN. We welcome patients from Amherst, Marble City, West Knoxville, and throughout East Tennessee.
What Are Cantilever Dental Bridges?
A cantilever dental bridge is a type of dental restoration used to replace a missing tooth when there is only one supporting tooth available. Instead of relying on abutments on both sides like other bridges, the replacement tooth (pontic) is anchored to a single abutment tooth.
Think of it like a suspension bridge or even a diving board—secured at one end, but extending across a gap to restore function and appearance.
Components of a Cantilever Bridge:
- Pontic: The artificial tooth that fills the gap.
- Abutment tooth: The existing tooth that supports the bridge.
- Crown: A porcelain or ceramic cap placed over the supporting tooth for strength and stability.
Advantages of Cantilever Dental Bridges
Many patients choose a cantilever bridge because of its conservative nature and practical benefits:
- Minimal tooth preparation: Less enamel is removed from the healthy tooth compared to other bridges.
- Preserves natural tooth structure: Protects surrounding teeth from unnecessary drilling or crowns.
- Effective for smaller gaps: Ideal for a single missing tooth in low bite-force areas (like front teeth).
- Quicker procedure: Requires fewer steps than dental implant-supported bridges.
- Cost-effective: Often more affordable than implants or more complex restorations.
- Shorter healing time: Since it’s less invasive, patients typically experience faster recovery.
When Is a Cantilever Bridge the Right Choice?
Not every patient is a candidate for this type of bridge. A cantilever bridge may be recommended when:
- The missing tooth is at the end of a dental arch.
- The supporting tooth (abutment) is healthy and strong enough to bear the load.
- It’s being placed in an area with lighter chewing forces (front teeth vs. back teeth).
- Patients want a permanent bridge but prefer a conservative option over implants.
Let’s chat about your options! Contact our dentist in Knoxville, Dr. Patel, today at (865) 687-8670 to schedule your appointment and begin the road to a full smile.
The Cantilever Dental Bridge Procedure in Knoxville
While we may not provide this treatment, here’s what you can expect when visiting a dentist near you for a cantilever bridge:
1. First Visit and Consultation
Dr. Patel will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums, utilizing X-rays or scans. We will assess the abutment tooth to confirm its suitability for supporting a replacement tooth. A customized treatment plan will then be developed. This plan may include alternative options if a cantilever bridge is not deemed the most appropriate solution.
2. Preparing the Abutment Tooth
A small amount of enamel is reshaped from the supporting tooth. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable.
3. Impressions and Temporary Bridge
After preparing the tooth, a temporary bridge will be placed while your permanent porcelain-fused or ceramic bridge is custom-made and then permanently affixed.
4. Placement of the Permanent Bridge
Your custom porcelain-fused or ceramic bridge is fitted and adjusted for bite alignment. It’s then securely bonded to the abutment tooth.
5. Follow-Up and Care
We’ll check the bridge for comfort and function. We’ll review your ongoing maintenance to help prevent decay and gum disease around the supporting tooth.
Caring for a Cantilever Dental Bridge
To extend the lifespan of your bridge (typically 10–15 years with proper care):
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the pontic.
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or caramel to prevent failure.
- Schedule routine visits at Fountain City Smiles every 6 months.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
The costs of a cantilever dental bridge typically range between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on materials, design, and whether a temporary bridge is needed. Insurance may help cover part of the expense.
Yes, cantilever dental bridges are considered a permanent restoration, though adjustments may be needed over time.
On average, the survival rates of cantilever dental bridges are 10–15 years. With excellent oral hygiene and healthy gums, some bridges last even longer.
Alternatives to cantilever dental bridges include dental implant-supported bridges, Maryland bridges, or removable partial dentures, depending on your unique situation.
Love Your Smile Again—Contact Our Knoxville Dentist Near You
Don’t let a gap in your smile affect your confidence. Whether you’re considering a cantilever bridge or exploring other treatments, our Knoxville dental team is here to help.
Fountain City Smiles proudly serves patients in Knoxville, Amherst, Marble City, West Knoxville, and surrounding East Tennessee communities. Call us at (865) 687-8670 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Niral Patel, dentist in Knoxville, TN.
