How does a Spring cantilever bridge differ from a Simple Cantilever?

How does a Spring cantilever bridge differ from a Simple Cantilever?

• A. It has retaining teeth on both sides of the pontic
• B. It features retaining teeth several teeth away from the pontic on one side only
• C. It requires more extensive preparation of the retaining teeth
• D. It utilizes two pontics instead of one

Answer: (B)

A Spring cantilever bridge is characterized by its specific design features, particularly how it interacts with the adjacent teeth. The correct choice reflects that the bridge is anchored by retaining teeth that are not immediately adjacent to the pontic, which is the fake tooth that fills the gap where a natural tooth is missing. This feature allows for a more flexible design and reduces the weight and bulk of the bridge since it can be supported by a single retaining tooth located some distance away. This design can be particularly useful in cases where there is inadequate support from adjacent teeth or insufficient dental structure. The other options do not accurately describe the nature of a Spring cantilever bridge. For instance, having retaining teeth on both sides or requiring more extensive preparation would alter the bridge's fundamental design principles. By only retaining a tooth some distance away from the pontic, the Spring cantilever achieves its distinctive and practical function in dental restoration.

A Spring cantilever bridge is characterized by its specific design features, particularly how it interacts with the adjacent teeth. The correct choice reflects that the bridge is anchored by retaining teeth that are not immediately adjacent to the pontic, which is the fake tooth that fills the gap where a natural tooth is missing.

This feature allows for a more flexible design and reduces the weight and bulk of the bridge since it can be supported by a single retaining tooth located some distance away. This design can be particularly useful in cases where there is inadequate support from adjacent teeth or insufficient dental structure.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of a Spring cantilever bridge. For instance, having retaining teeth on both sides or requiring more extensive preparation would alter the bridge's fundamental design principles. By only retaining a tooth some distance away from the pontic, the Spring cantilever achieves its distinctive and practical function in dental restoration.