Types of Dental Bridges: Traditional, Cantilever, Maryland, and Implant-Supported

Missing teeth can impact more than just your smile—they can affect your speech, ability to chew, and overall oral health. Fortunately, dental bridges offer a reliable solution for restoring both function and aesthetics. There are several types of dental bridges, each suited to different needs and situations. In this post, we’ll explore the four main types of dental bridges: Traditional, Cantilever, Maryland, and Implant-Supported, so you can better understand which might be right for you.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants. The “bridge” quite literally fills the gap left behind by missing teeth, restoring both the appearance and functionality of your smile. Your dentist will assess your mouth and recommend the best bridge based on the location of the missing teeth, the health of surrounding teeth, and other individual factors.

1. Traditional Dental Bridge

Traditional dental bridges are the most common type. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns that are cemented onto the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are known as abutment teeth.

Best for: Patients with healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.

Pros:

• Durable and strong, ideal for back teeth.

• Natural-looking appearance.

Cons:

• Requires filing down adjacent healthy teeth to place crowns.

• Not suitable if abutment teeth are weak or missing.

2. Cantilever Dental Bridge

The cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but uses only one abutment tooth to support the pontic. It’s used when there’s only one adjacent tooth next to the missing space.

Best for: Areas with less bite pressure, like front teeth.

Pros:

• Useful when only one adjacent tooth is available.

• Less invasive than some other options.

Cons:

• Not as stable as other bridges.

• Can place extra stress on the supporting tooth.

3. Maryland Dental Bridge

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use a metal or porcelain framework to hold the pontic. This framework is bonded to the back of the adjacent natural teeth with dental cement, eliminating the need for crowns.

Best for: Replacing missing front teeth.

Pros:

• Minimal impact on adjacent teeth.

• A conservative option that doesn’t require extensive reshaping.

Cons:

• Less durable than traditional bridges.

• May not withstand the bite forces in back teeth.

4. Implant-Supported Dental Bridge

As the name suggests, implant-supported bridges use dental implants instead of crowns or frameworks. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implants have integrated with the bone, the bridge is placed on top.

Best for: Patients missing multiple teeth or those with no healthy natural teeth near the gap.

Pros:

• Very strong and stable.

• Helps preserve bone structure and prevent bone loss.

Cons:

• Requires surgery and longer healing time.

• Higher upfront cost.

Which Dental Bridge Is Right for You?

Choosing the right type of dental bridge depends on a variety of factors including the number of missing teeth, location in the mouth, the condition of surrounding teeth, and your budget. A thorough consultation with your dentist will help determine the most suitable option for you.

If you’re unsure where to start, visiting a reputable dental clinic in Red Deer can make all the difference. A qualified dental professional will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Restoring Your Smile, One Bridge at a Time

Dental bridges do more than restore your smile—they help you chew and speak properly, maintain the shape of your face, and keep remaining teeth from shifting. Whether you opt for a traditional or implant-supported bridge, you’ll be investing in both your health and confidence.

If you're considering dental bridges in Red Deer, make sure to consult a trusted provider who offers a full range of restorative options and personalized care. At the end of the day, your smile deserves nothing less.

Ready to explore your options? Contact a skilled dentist in Red Deer today and take the first step toward a healthier, complete smile.