Have you recently lost a tooth? Not sure if you’re a candidate for dental implants? If you answered “yes” to both questions our dentist in Shelby Township, MI, may recommend a Maryland bridge to restore your smile. Maryland bridges are a popular option for patients looking to replace one tooth.
Here’s what else you need to know about the .
Candidates for Maryland Bridges
When teeth are missing due to oral trauma or congenital causes, dental implants are a great way to fill in those empty spaces. However, not every patient is a candidate for the dental implant procedure.
Insufficient bone density, angled tooth roots in the region, and the age of the patient are all factors that might determine whether an alternative dental restoration would be better.
Under these circumstances, our Shelby Township dentist may recommend a Maryland bridge as a possible tooth replacement option.
Related: What Happens If You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth? →
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 .
Maryland Bridge Procedure
The procedure for Maryland bridges is easy, quick, and non-invasive. First, our dentist will lightly etch the back surface of the teeth on either side of your tooth gap in order to facilitate the bonding. The metal wings of the Maryland bridge also have a slightly etched surface that will bond easily to the teeth.
Next, our dentist will apply the bonding resin to the back of each tooth. He will then place the Maryland bridge, positioning the metal wings over the backside of the adjacent teeth and fitting the replacement tooth in the gap.
Finally, the resin will be cured to secure the dental restoration in place. The final product is sturdy and can last for many years with proper maintenance and diligent oral hygiene. If your restoration becomes damaged, we are more than happy to help repair or replace it for you.
Once you leave your appointment, you should be able to eat and speak normally right away. As the procedure does not require the significant removal of your tooth enamel, you should not experience any pain after the bridge is attached. However, as with many dental procedures, you might notice some mild sensitivity in the immediate aftermath of the appointment.
Request an Appointment with Dr. Nazarian
Dr. Ara Nazarian is a reputable dental implant dentist in Shelby Township, MI. In addition to dental implants, he also offers other treatment options so you can start smiling with confidence. To schedule an appointment and learn if you’re a candidate for a Maryland bridge, please call the Premier Dental Center at (248) 457-0500. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.