Cantilever FPD Complications — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: D — Cement failure and abutment decementation due to torsional forces
Cantilever FPDs (where the pontic extends beyond the terminal abutment without support at one end) generate torsional (rotational) forces on the abutment teeth. The cantilever acts as a lever arm — occlusal forces on the unsupported pontic create a twisting force that tends to dislodge the retainer from the abutment at the opposite end. This makes cement failure and abutment decementation the most common complication. Cantilever design is acceptable when the abutment has excellent periodontal support and the cantilever span is short (one pontic).
Reference: Shillingburg – Fundamentals of Fixed Prosthodontics, 4th ed., 2012