BRIDGEWORK 2

Question 1

What are the advantages of conventional fixed-fixed bridges?

Answer 1

• robust design
• maximum retention and strength
• abutment teeth can be splinted together
• can be used in longer spans
• lab construction straightforward

Question 2

What are the disadvantages of conventional fixed-fixed bridges?

Answer 2

• preparation can be difficult (parallel tooth prep needed for common path of insertion)
• prep must be minimally tapered
• common path of insertion for abutments
• removal of tooth tissue

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of conventional cantilever bridges?

Answer 3

• short span only
• rigid to avoid distortion

Question 4

What is a hybrid bridge?

Answer 4

One retainer is prepped conventionally and the other retainer has minimal prep (like a resin bonded bridge)

Question 5

What is a spring-cantilever bridge?

Answer 5

one pontic attached to the end of a metal arm that runs across the palate to a rigid connector on the palatal side of a retainer

Question 6

What are the advantages of spring cantilever bridges?

Answer 6

• useful if spacing present between upper incisors

Question 7

What are the disadvantages of conventional spring cantilever bridges?

Answer 7

• can only be used to replace upper incisor teeth
• difficult to clean below palatal retainer
• may irritate palatal mucosa
• pontic can be mobile

Question 8

You are evaluating a tooth as a potential abutment for a bridge, what should you consider?

Answer 8

Must be able to withstand forces previously directed to now missing teeth
- supporting tissues should be healthy & inflammation free
- optimum crown to root ratio 2:3 (minimum 1:1)