What is a Maryland Bridge?

Traditional dental bridges are used to restore missing teeth between natural teeth or between dental implants. They are supported by adjacent teeth with a crown; they can also be bonded to the adjacent tooth. Implants are generally considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, but implants are not always possible. Since traditional bridges involve wear on adjacent teeth, they are increasingly an option with more specific indications, fixing missing teeth when, for some reason, implants are not indicated for placement. Traditional dental bridges are usually suitable for single or multiple missing teeth in the anterior region, where the adjacent natural teeth are healthy and have sufficient bonding area. But what if you are missing a front tooth or don’t want to have your teeth ground down? A Maryland Bridge might be the answer!

 

All dental bridges can be used in cases of:

 

  • Abutment teeth with extensive decay or with large restorations that need to be replaced;
  • Abutment teeth with endodontic treatment that benefit from the reinforcement of a full coating;
  • Change in color, shape, position, and alignment of teeth in a specific region;
  • Contraindication for the placement of an implant to replace missing teeth;
  • Complexity of implant placement versus bridge placement (e.g. need for sinus lift surgery, bone graft).

 

A Maryland Bridge differs from traditional dental bridges in that it does not completely rely on grinding down adjacent teeth in order to be placed.

 

Maryland Bridges are often recommended for missing front teeth due to the reduced stress in this area compared to molars. A Maryland bridge is a partial adhesive dental prosthesis that replaces missing teeth. It is a more conservative approach than other replacement options because it does not completely cover adjacent teeth.

 

The Maryland Bridge is a restoration composed of metal wings and one or more artificial teeth, which are bonded directly to the adjacent natural teeth by means of an adhesive, without the need to prepare the pulp portion of the tooth, thus preserving most of the dental structure.

 

The Maryland Bridge is characterized by:

 

  • Being a metal structure with wings that extend to join the supporting teeth and tongue
  • Have a floating tooth in the center, made of ceramic to harmonize with existing teeth
  • Being a minimally invasive option, which prevents wear on adjacent teeth
  • Dental bridges are used to restore missing teeth between natural teeth or between dental implants.

 

Advantages of a Maryland Bridge over traditional dental bridges

Maryland Bridges are Aesthetically pleasing; with careful matching of your other teeth, it is impossible to tell a bridge from your natural teeth. They also minimize the damage to teeth, as the adjoining teeth are not ground down to place the bridge. They are also easy and quick to manufacture.

 

Pros:

  • Preserves the natural structure of adjacent teeth.
  • Typically less expensive than traditional bridges or implants.
  • Quicker procedure compared to more invasive options.

Cons:

  • Less durable than traditional bridges or dental implants.
  • May not withstand heavy biting or chewing forces.
  • The bond can weaken over time, leading to the bridge detaching.

 

In conclusion

If you are missing teeth, dental bridges are a great way to restore your oral health and the look of your smile. There are a few different types of bridges, including the Maryland Bridge, which depends less on the state of the adjoining teeth to restore the missing tooth. The Maryland Bridge is a great option if you are worried about grinding down your other teeth. Please make an appointment with us today to find out your options for replacing missing teeth!

What is the Cost of a Dental Bridge?