Multiple cantilevers: an alternative to dental implants.

A solution to the problem of missing posterior teeth is presented. The prerequisite for solving this problem is that the remaining teeth must be positioned in one form or another in a triangle, as one can see in Figs. 2, 3 and 4. The tripod effect, in connection with the controlling effect of the mechano-receptors in the periodontal ligaments of the remaining abutment teeth, permit us to construct a functional fixed prosthesis. The feather-edged or knife-edged preparation technique creates long axial walls. Together with the parallel prepared abutment teeth, this must be viewed as the main-retentive feature for fixed prostheses with multiple cantilevers. In extreme situations, where one is uncertain about the outcome of a case, provisional laboratory fabricated restorations are excellent for evaluating the stability of the cross-arch splinted teeth. The whole bridge occasionally shows some mobility. As long as the mobility shows no increase over a period of time, and does not interfere with the patient's chewing ability, a permanent bridge with multiple cantilevers can be inserted. I usually include no more than three cantilevered pontics on each side of the arch in a multiple cantilevered bridge. A second molar is not replaced by a third cantilevered pontic. Its position in the arch may cause an overly strong lever action on the fixed prosthesis.