Maryland Dental Bridges in Henderson, NV

What Are Maryland Dental Bridges?

Maryland dental bridges, also referred to as resin-bonded bridges, are a type of dental prosthesis designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges that depend on dental crowns for support, Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. This structure provides support and stability to the artificial teeth, making dental crowns unnecessary.

Do Dentists Still Use Them?

Although not as common as traditional dental bridges, some dentists still use Maryland bridges to replace front teeth.

Benefits of Maryland Dental Bridges

Maryland dental bridges offer numerous advantages, including:

• Conservative Approach: These bridges are a conservative choice for tooth replacement, requiring minimal alteration to adjacent healthy teeth compared to traditional bridges, which often necessitate significant enamel removal.
• Preserves Natural Teeth: Relying on bonding to neighboring teeth without crowns, this type of bridge preserves the natural structure of adjacent teeth, reducing the risk of long-term damage.
• Quick and Non-Invasive: The process of obtaining a Maryland dental bridge is generally quicker and less invasive than other restorative options, involving minimal tooth preparation for a faster procedure and shorter recovery time.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Maryland bridges offer an aesthetically pleasing solution for filling gaps left by missing teeth. The pontic (replacement tooth) is customized to match your natural teeth, enhancing your smile’s appearance.
• Functional Restoration: These bridges restore your ability to chew and speak properly. By replacing missing teeth, Maryland bridges help maintain normal oral functions, which can be compromised when teeth are lost.

Maryland Bridges Compared to Traditional Bridges

There are significant differences between Maryland dental bridges and traditional dental bridges, including:

• A Conservative Approach: Maryland bridges offer a more conservative treatment option compared to traditional bridges. Since they don’t require extensive preparation of adjacent teeth for crowns, more of the natural tooth structure is preserved.
• Strength and Stability: Traditional bridges, with their crowns, provide excellent strength and stability. However, Maryland bridges can be a suitable choice for replacing front teeth or areas with less biting force, as they offer sufficient strength and stability for such situations.
• Cost: Maryland bridges are often more cost-effective than traditional bridges because they require less dental work and materials. However, the cost may vary depending on factors such as the number of missing teeth, materials used, and the complexity of the case.
• Aesthetics: Both Maryland and traditional bridges can be customized to match the natural color and shape of your teeth, providing a natural-looking smile. However, traditional bridges may offer slightly better aesthetics due to the use of dental crowns.

Maryland Dental Bridge Process

Initial Consultation

The process begins with an initial consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, your oral health will be evaluated, and the dentist will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for a dental bridge. They’ll also discuss your treatment options, including the type of bridge (traditional, cantilever, Maryland, or implant-supported) that would be best for your case.

Preparation

If a Maryland dental bridge is chosen, this type involves minimal alteration of the adjacent teeth. These adjacent teeth will have a small amount of enamel removed to make space for the bridge to be bonded in place. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.

Temporary Bridge

While your permanent bridge is being created, a temporary bridge might be placed to protect your exposed teeth and gums.

Bridge Fitting

Once the custom bridge is ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office. The temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is checked for fit, comfort, and appearance. The dentist may make some adjustments to ensure a proper fit.

Bonding

Once satisfied with the fit, the dental bridge is bonded to the adjacent teeth using dental cement. For Maryland bridges, this usually involves bonding a metal or ceramic framework to the back of the adjacent teeth. This framework supports the pontic (replacement tooth) and holds the bridge securely in place.

Final Adjustments

After the bridge is bonded, your dentist will check your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment. Your bite must be balanced to avoid undue stress on the bridge and your natural teeth.

Do You Need a Maryland Dental Bridge?

Your dentist may recommend a Maryland bridge for patients for various reasons, including:

• Missing teeth: A Maryland dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth, particularly when adjacent teeth are healthy and strong.
• Aesthetic concerns: Bridges improve the appearance of your smile by filling in gaps left by missing teeth.
• Speech improvement: Missing teeth can affect speech, and a bridge can help improve clarity in speech patterns.
• Chewing functionality: Bridges restore the ability to properly chew and bite, which can be compromised by missing teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions