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Advantages and Disadvantages of Maryland Bridges – In some situations, a Maryland bridge can be a more viable solution compared with other bridges. For example, if an individual is still growing but needs a replacement front tooth, a Maryland bridge offers a minimally invasive solution, as a review in the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry (JERD) explains.

A dentist can simply attach the bridge to the backside of the teeth with adhesive to provide a natural-looking, fixed tooth. Additionally, for those who may be too ill to undergo invasive dental procedures or surgeries, such as an implant procedure, placing a Maryland bridge can be a good option. As a report in the Journal of Clinical Case Reports notes, anesthesia is usually not needed when placing this type of bridge.

As the JERD review explains, a Maryland bridge also helps to preserve tooth structure because it doesn’t involve placing full crowns over any teeth. Maryland bridges are also typically cheaper than alternative options, such as implants. According to a study published in the Australian Dental Journal, resin-bonded bridges like Maryland bridges can last 12 to 21 years in the front teeth with a 95.1% probability of success.

Are Maryland bridges permanent?

Maryland Bridges vs. Regular Bridges – A Maryland bridge is a type of permanent dental restoration that can replace a missing tooth. The concept is similar to that of a typical dental bridge, in that a prosthetic tooth is attached to teeth on either side of the gap to create a seamless smile.

However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Regular dental bridges require our dentist to remove some of the enamel on the adjacent teeth, as the restoration is supported by a crown on either side. While this process provides a secure replacement for your tooth, it also requires the removal of healthy tooth enamel, permanently altering the otherwise intact teeth.

Maryland bridges, on the other hand, consist of a prosthetic tooth with thin metal “wings” on either side. These wings are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, eliminating the need to drill away any of the tooth’s natural enamel. The wings are attached using a composite resin that is cured under a special light, creating a durable dental bridge,

How sturdy is a Maryland bridge?

The Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges Are you trying to decide if a may be right for you? If you have one more missing teeth or severely damaged teeth that cannot be restored, a dental bridge is one option for replacing them. There are definite pros and cons to bridges when compared to other solutions, such as dental implants.

• Traditional Bridge. A traditional bridge attaches to healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. The natural teeth are shaved down and crowns are placed over them for added strength and security. Those crowns are attached to the bridge to make a solid row of teeth.
• Maryland Bridge, A Maryland bridge involves a metal structure that is cemented to the back of the teeth to support the bridge. It leaves the natural teeth completely intact.
• Implant Supported Bridge, When a row of three or more teeth need to be replaced, an implant supported bridge is usually the best option. This involves placing a (an artificial tooth with a metal root that screws into the jawbone) on either side of the bridge to act as the support.

Now that you know how dental bridges work and the different types, here are the biggest advantages to going with a dental bridge over some other choices.

1. Bridges cost less than implants. A dental bridge does not require as much precision and is not as invasive to put in place, which means it costs less than a dental implant. Cost is one of the major reasons some patients choose bridges over implants.
2. No bone grafting is necessary, If a tooth has been missing for some time, the jaw bone that once held it in place may have weakened or resorbed. Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to strengthen the jaw bone by placing an artificial or animal bone fragment in place under the gums. It is only necessary for implants, not for bridges.
3. Bridges have many advantages over dentures, Dentists often recommend bridges instead of dentures if the patient has enough healthy teeth left. The healthy teeth can act as anchors for bridges, as opposed to dentures that must be anchored to the gums using some time of temporary sealant which is not as secure.
4. Bridges are faster than other options. Bridges are faster to put in place than implants, especially because no bone grafting is necessary. Even if a few implants are placed to anchor the bridge, it is faster than getting additional implants.

There are also some disadvantages to bridges when compared to other options for replacing teeth.

1. Traditional bridges require putting crowns over perfectly healthy teeth. The healthy teeth on either side of the bridge will have to be shaved down and capped, which results in losing some healthy tooth enamel. This increases the risk of permanent damage to already healthy teeth.
2. Maryland bridges can cause damage to the existing teeth and are not sturdy, Because Maryland bridges involve cementing metal to the back of the teeth, it can do permanent damage to the healthy teeth. These bridges are also not as resilient to the pressure from chewing as other bridge types.
3. Implant supported bridges take longer and cost more, Because the implants have to be placed first, it can take a few months to complete the process, especially if bone grafting is required first to fortify the jaw bone to support the implant. The cost of the two implants on either side of the bridge does raise the total cost, but it will still be less than getting all implants.
4. Bridges don’t correct bone loss in the jaw, When a tooth is missing or extracted, the jaw bone that once held it in place begins to resorb or dissolve. Bridges sit above the gum line and don’t have any roots, as opposed to implants that have an artificial root that is screwed into the jaw bone. Therefore bridges don’t stop bone loss from occurring the way implants do.
5. Bridges don’t last as long as implants, Bridges are not expected to last a lifetime as implants are. Because of the damage bridges eventually inflict on the anchor teeth, they may not always be able to remain in place forever.

Still not sure if a bridge is right for you? You need a professional opinion from a dentist with experience placing bridges and dental implants, like Aurora Dental. Call us today at (330) 562-3400 to schedule a consultation or, We will evaluate the current condition of your teeth, listen to your thoughts and concerns, and recommend the best course of treatment.

How much do Maryland bridges cost?

How much does a Maryland bridge cost? – The cost of a Maryland dental bridge will vary depending on several factors like your dental insurance, oral health, the missing tooth (or teeth), the materials used in the Maryland bridge structure, and more. Generally, a Maryland bridge will cost about $1,000 to $2,300.

Can Maryland bridge be removed?

Can a Maryland Bridge be Removed? – Yes, it can be removed easily without any further damage to the teeth. It just needs to detach the metallic wings from the surrounding teeth and the Maryland bridge is removed. Infact, they are replaced after every 15-20 years and rebonded after every 5 years to retain the impression and effectiveness.

What can you not eat on a Maryland bridge?

Nuts, Chips, and Hard Foods – We use the strongest materials possible when constructing a dental bridge, but patients should still be careful to protect these restorations. Hard foods like nuts, chips, and popcorn kernels can damage the structure of a dental bridge.

Which is better Maryland bridge or fixed bridge?

Maryland Bonded Bridges – Maryland bonded bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, are commonly used to replace front teeth. They are made from a metal framework with porcelain fused to metal teeth. The pontic is fixed to the adjacent healthy teeth with metal or porcelain wings on either side of the bridge, which are fixed behind the adjacent teeth.

Is a Maryland bridge a good option?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Maryland Bridges – In some situations, a Maryland bridge can be a more viable solution compared with other bridges. For example, if an individual is still growing but needs a replacement front tooth, a Maryland bridge offers a minimally invasive solution, as a review in the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry (JERD) explains.

A dentist can simply attach the bridge to the backside of the teeth with adhesive to provide a natural-looking, fixed tooth. Additionally, for those who may be too ill to undergo invasive dental procedures or surgeries, such as an implant procedure, placing a Maryland bridge can be a good option. As a report in the Journal of Clinical Case Reports notes, anesthesia is usually not needed when placing this type of bridge.

As the JERD review explains, a Maryland bridge also helps to preserve tooth structure because it doesn’t involve placing full crowns over any teeth. Maryland bridges are also typically cheaper than alternative options, such as implants. According to a study published in the Australian Dental Journal, resin-bonded bridges like Maryland bridges can last 12 to 21 years in the front teeth with a 95.1% probability of success.

How many teeth can be replaced with a Maryland bridge?

A dental bridge can be used to replace anywhere from one to four teeth, depending on the patient’s needs. However, it is most common that one to two teeth will be replaced. In some rare cases, a bridge can replace more teeth than four; however, there are a few factors that play into it.

What is an alternative to a Maryland bridge?

Implant-supported bridges are more secure than Maryland bridges. And unlike traditional bridges, they do not require the reshaping of otherwise healthy teeth. One disadvantage of implant-supported bridges is that the whole process takes months, since dental implants take time to heal.

Can you have an MRI with a Maryland bridge?

Metals, Dental Implants, and MRI Scans – Because the MRI machine is essentially a big, powerful magnet, the biggest safety concern is removing all ferromagnetic metal objects from the imaging area. The magnet is so strong it can pull oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, and any metal device implanted in the body,

The medical professional who oversees your MRI will ask for a comprehensive medical history, especially notes on any implants you may have before undergoing any procedure. The Radiological Society of North America provides a comprehensive list of metal components that doctors should check for before administering an MRI, from internal devices like pacemakers and cochlear implants to cosmetic items like piercings, jewelry, and even metallic nail polish.

The titanium, titanium alloy, and zirconia used in most dental implants are not ferromagnetic metals – making it perfectly safe to enter an MRI with them in your mouth. Even so, it’s best to alert your doctor that you have dental implants if you need an MRI.

1. Metal objects in the body can still interfere with imaging even if there is a slim chance that they will injure you.
2. You should also tell your doctor about any metal fillings, crowns, braces, or dentures.
3. Dental implants and MRI technologies continue to advance, which is good news for patients who can benefit from both.

Since most implants are MRI-safe, you don’t have to worry that the dental treatment you’re receiving now will limit your options for medical imaging later.

How long does it take to do a Maryland bridge?

During the first visit, molds are taken of the area in order to make the false teeth (pontics) in the bridge. During the second visit, usually about one week later, the Maryland bonded bridge is put into place. Both visits usually take about an hour to 90 minutes.

Can you chew gum with a Maryland bridge?

It is never a good idea to consume sticky foods, but it is an even worse idea when you have dental bridges or crowns. Sticky foods can get stuck in the dental restoration and pull it right out. Foods like caramel, fruit snacks, gum, and sticky candies should not be consumed when you have dental restorations.

Can you have 2 teeth on a Maryland bridge?

Can two teeth be replaced with one Maryland bridge? I have a Maryland bridge with a fake tooth on the top of my mouth that has lasted a long time. Now my brother needs to replace two teeth right next to each other in his mouth, as well. Can he get a Maryland bridge with two fake teeth instead of just one? Thanks, Ester from Charlotte, NC Ester, If your brother’s missing teeth are on the bottom in the front where the teeth are smaller, then a Maryland bridge may work.

Having more than two teeth attached to a Maryland bridge isn’t recommended. A Maryland bridge typically has a porcelain tooth baked onto a metal framework. The metal wings at the end of the framework are then bonded to the backside of the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. With two teeth attached to the bridge, there are risk factors to consider: The force of two teeth on the metal framework is double what a typical Maryland bridge is designed for.

It may break more easily. Because the span is longer, when force is applied, like chewing, the bridge will be more able to bend. This puts pressure and stress on the teeth the bridge is bonded to and can damage them. Have your brother talk to a cosmetic dentist who can help him know if a Maryland bridge is right for him or if there are better options in his case.

Is a Maryland bridge temporary?

Contraindications of Maryland bridge: –

Several missing teeth in a row.Rear teeth where the forces while swallowing are very high.Crowded teeth, because of the higher chances of dislodgement of the bridge.Carious abutment – cavities in the abutment causes failure as the cavity progresses over time. Also, it mechanically weakens the tooth structure. Carious abutment should be treated by caries removal and restoration along with a full crown and bridge to replace the missing teeth.Deep closure of mouth – deep bite.Severely proclined front teeth, which are more prone to trauma.Crowding of teeth with little space for tooth replacement.Parafunctional habits like night grinding or bruxism.Sensitivity to nickel.

Maryland bridges are often used as a temporary solution to replace missing teeth for adolescents, More permanent solutions – like a traditional bridge or dental implant – are not recommended at a young age as the anatomy of the mouth and teeth are still changing.

How long does a permanent bridge last?

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last? – Dental bridges can last five to 15 years and even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, it is not unusual for the life span of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years.

Is dental bridge lifetime?

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last? – According to the Cleveland Clinic, dental bridges need to be replaced about every 5 to 7 years; however, the University of Rochester Medical Center reports they can also last for a decade or longer with the right care. In some cases, they can even last for a lifetime with a good oral hygiene routine and regular care from a dentist.

How long do bridges stay up for?

A Bridge Lifespan – The typical lifespan of a bridge can range from five to fifteen years. Most dental insurances state that the life of a bridge should be at least five years – meaning you are not eligible for a new bridge until the five years is up.