What is a Maryland bridge?

 

There are a number of treatment options available for patients who are missing one or more teeth. A dental bridge is a non-invasive dental prosthesis which is a great option for patients who are not a candidate for dental implants. Patients missing a tooth in the back of their mouth may be tempted to leave the space and forgo replacement but leaving a gap in your smile will cause healthy teeth to shift as they attempt to close the space.

 

A dental bridge can be used to replace multiple teeth and can be removable like a partial denture or permanently cemented in place. Bridges that are permanent are much more stable than removable options. A traditional bridge uses two crowns on each side of the fake teeth to anchor the prosthesis in place. A Maryland bridge uses metal attachments and does not negatively affect the neighboring teeth.

 

What is a Maryland bridge?

 

Instead of compromising healthy teeth by preparing them for dental crowns, a Maryland bridge utilizes metal wings that are fabricated with the fake tooth and are affixed to the back of the teeth on either side of the space being filled. While it still relies on healthy teeth, a Maryland bridge is simply cemented in place without losing any tooth structure as with dental crowns.

 

A Maryland bridge is typically fabricated using a dental lab. The pontic (fake tooth) is made using porcelain fused to metal which gives the strength of a metal restoration and the aesthetic qualities of porcelain. The pontic is fitted into a metal framework that has little wings used to secure the pontic in place.

 

Is there a downside to a Maryland bridge?

 

The biggest downside of a Maryland bridge is that it cannot be used on back teeth. If you are missing a molar that takes a lot of abuse with chewing or bruxism, a traditional bridge is the better choice.

 

Aesthetically speaking, it is possible that the color of a Maryland bridge will not totally match neighboring teeth. Our teeth have a translucent gradation that cannot be replicated with porcelain fused to metal restorations, like Maryland bridges. The metal wings can also create a darker appearance on the teeth to which they are attached.

 

Dental bridges are a great way to restore your smile. Dental implants are typically the best choice possible but not everyone is a candidate for implant placement surgery. A Maryland bridge requires no downtime, and you do not have to have any dietary modifications or restrictions at any point in your treatment.

 

Taking care of your oral health is the best way to ensure the longevity of your Maryland bridge. They are easier to brush and floss than traditional bridges, so it is a simple way to protect your investment. If you have a missing tooth in the front of your mouth, visit your dentist to see if a Maryland bridge is a good option for you.

What is the cost of a dental bridge?