The single unit, single retainer, cantilever resin-bonded bridge.

Abstract

Resin-bonded restorations have many advantages over conventional alternatives. Advances in adhesive technology together with a better understanding of the clinical function of such restorations have allowed resin-bonded bridges to play an important role in everyday clinical practice. This paper highlights the role and importance of the single abutment, single pontic cantilever resin-bonded bridge. Clinical experience might suggest that the cantilever design offers a viable alternative to other designs. Furthermore, the paper suggests that when cantilever resin-bonded bridges fail initially, re-bond often leads to predictable long-term success. Factors such as patient selection, abutment preparation, retainer design and the aesthetic limitations of resin-bonded bridges are also discussed. The authors can claim that further clinical studies are necessary to identify exactly what factors influence the success of cantilever and other resin-bonded designs.