Most people are at least somewhat familiar with traditional dental bridge treatment. It consists of two crowns that are placed on the teeth to either side of the gap -- along with a false tooth that sits in the gap. Traditional bridges work well for many dental patients, but they are not for everyone. Another type of bridge that your dentist might recommend, in some cases, is a Maryland bridge. Here is what you need to know about this type of dental appliance.

How Does a Maryland Bridge Attach to the Other Teeth?

The main difference between a traditional bridge and a Maryland bridge is how the two attach. Instead of attaching via two dental crowns, a Maryland bridge attaches via two prongs. One prong reaches around the back of the tooth on the right of the missing tooth, and a second prong reaches around the back of the tooth to the left of the missing tooth. The prongs themselves are cemented to the teeth. For this reason, Maryland bridges are sometimes called adhesive bridges or wing bridges.

If you are missing more than one tooth in a row, your dentist can construct a Maryland bridge with replacements for the two or three missing teeth. The prongs will still attach to the teeth on either side of the gap.

Can You Tell a Maryland Bridge Is Not Real?

A Maryland bridge may be slightly more obvious than a traditional bridge, but not incredibly so. Generally, this dental appliance is used to replace a molar or molars, so unless someone is purposefully looking in your mouth, they won't notice it's not a real tooth. You can't really see the prongs when your mouth is closed, though can will be able to see them if you open your mouth and look in the mirror.

Why Is Your Dentist Recommending a Maryland Bridge?

If your dentist recommends a Maryland bridge rather than a traditional bridge, it's usually because of the health of the teeth the bridge must attach to. A traditional bridge puts a considerable amount of strain on those neighboring teeth. Some of their enamel must be removed to make space for the crowns, and the crowns pull and push on them over time as you chew on the bridge. A Maryland bridge is a lot easier on these neighboring teeth. Your dentist does not have to remove enamel from them to accommodate the prongs. When you chew on the crown, less strain is placed on these neighboring teeth. This can help these teeth last longer if they are plagued by cavities or decay or if they already have thin enamel.

Are There Any Downsides to Maryland Bridges?

Maryland bridges are not quite as strong as traditional bridges. As such, you may need to have the bridge replaced in a few years, whereas a traditional bridge may last 15 years or more. The other main downfall, as discussed above, is that a Maryland bridge is slightly more visible than a traditional bridge. 

How Will Your Dentist Apply the Maryland Bridge?

The process of having the bridge installed is pretty simple. During your first appointment, your dentist will take X-rays and measurements to ensure the bridge is made in the appropriate size. Once the bridge has been made in the lab, you'll come back for a second appointment. Your dentist will use cement to put the crown in place. You may feel some vibrations while they then file down the cement and make it smooth. 

You can then return home and start eating food like you normally would. You can also brush your teeth like normal. 

Share