What distinguishes a cantilever bridge?

A cantilever bridge is characterized by having retaining teeth on only one side of the pontic, which is the false tooth or teeth that replace missing natural teeth. This design supports the bridge effectively while allowing for a more streamlined aesthetic, as it means the bridge can be anchored to a single side without the need for additional support on the opposite side.

In dental applications, this can be particularly useful for situations where there are missing teeth in adjacent areas, and the opposite side of the gap does not have a healthy tooth to support a traditional bridge. Instead, the cantilever design takes advantage of the stability provided by the single retaining tooth, thereby allowing for effective function and aesthetics while simplifying the procedure required for installation.

Understanding the unique aspects of cantilever bridges can help dental professionals make informed decisions about their use in various clinical scenarios. The other options do not accurately reflect the defining characteristic of a cantilever bridge, highlighting the importance of knowing the specific features that differentiate it from other types of dental bridges.