When teeth are absent due to oral trauma or congenital reasons, dental implants offer an excellent solution for filling those gaps. However, not every patient qualifies for the dental implant procedure.
Factors like inadequate bone density, angled tooth roots in the area, and the patient's age can influence whether an alternative dental restoration would be more suitable.
In such cases, Affleck Dental might suggest a Maryland bridge as a potential option for replacing the missing tooth.
There are four types of dental bridges.
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional (regular) dental bridge is typically composed of one or two artificial teeth known as pontics, held in place by connected crowns on adjacent natural teeth (known as the abutment teeth).
In rare cases a bridge can be used to span a gap with three or four missing teeth. This is typically not recommended due to the strain that longer spans place on the two abutment teeth. For these bigger spans the bridge will need to be reinforced with stronger materials such as zirconia or porcelain fused to metal.
Best for: Situations where there are natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth/teeth.
Materials: Typically made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
Cost: A "three-unit" bridge with one pontic can range from about $1500 to $3,000.
Insurance Coverage: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost for dental bridges, typically between 50% and 80%, depending on the plan and medical necessity.
Other Considerations:
If you have metal allergies make sure you ask for a non-metal solution. If you think you might have a metal allergy, request an allergy patch test before considering any metal be included in your dental work
Also consider a dental implant in lieu of a bridge. In some cases, it is a better option for many reasons. Consider the pros and cons of a traditional bridge when compared with a dental implant...
Pros:
Quicker Procedure: Traditional bridges usually require only 2 dental visits, allowing for a quicker overall process compared to implants.
Lower Cost: Typically, traditional bridges are less expensive than implant-supported bridges, making them a more affordable option for some patients.
Less Invasive (No Surgery): Traditional bridges don’t require oral surgery, which is an advantage for patients who want to avoid surgical procedures or have health conditions that make surgery risky
Success Rate: Dental implants are close to 100% successful.
Cons:
Requires Altering Adjacent Teeth: This procedure involves shaving down adjacent teeth to fit crowns, thereby impacting two other healthy teeth.
Bone Loss: Without a root to stimulate the jawbone, bone loss can occur in the area under the missing tooth, a dental implant would prevent this.
Longevity and Durability: Traditional bridges tend to have a shorter lifespan (usually 10–15 years) compared to implants, as they rely on the health and stability of adjacent teeth.
Maintenance: Cleaning under the bridge can be challenging. Meticulous oral hygiene is required to prevent decay around the abutment teeth.
Maryland Bridge
Resin-bonded bridge
Maryland Bridges vs. Regular Bridges
A Maryland bridge is a special kind of dental fix that can replace a missing tooth for good. It's a bit like a regular dental bridge, where a fake tooth or pontic is connected to teeth on each side of the gap to make your smile complete. But there are some important differences to understand.
For traditional dental bridges Dr. Affleck needs to take away some of the enamel from the nearby teeth because the replacement tooth is held up by a crown on both sides. This method gives you a strong replacement for your tooth, but it also means saying goodbye to some healthy tooth enamel, changing those once untouched teeth forever.
Maryland bridges do things differently. They have a fake tooth with thin metal "wings" on each side. These wings get attached to the back of the nearby teeth, and here's the cool part – no need to drill away any natural tooth enamel. The wings are stuck on using a special resin that hardens under a special light, making a strong dental bridge without changing your natural teeth.
Structure: Uses a metal or porcelain framework with “wings” on each side that bond to the back of the adjacent teeth using a strong resin.
Best for: Replacing front teeth where less pressure is applied such as the front teeth on the bottom or top
Cost: Generally between $1500 to $2,500
Insurance Coverage: It depends, but insurance companies will cover the cost if a Maryland bridge is considered more cost-effective or comparable to a traditional bridge. However, if it’s more expensive or deemed less durable, coverage may be reduced, or the plan may only cover the cost equivalent to a traditional bridge. We typically see 50% coverage or better.
Considerations: Requires minimal tooth modification but may not be as strong as other types.
Maryland Bridge Procedure
The process for Maryland bridges is straightforward, swift, and doesn't involve any major procedures. First, our dentist gently prepares the back surface of the teeth on each side of the gap where your tooth is missing. This preparation helps in making a good connection. The metal wings of the Maryland bridge also have a slightly roughened surface, which makes them bond easily to the teeth.
Next, our dentist applies a bonding resin to the back of each tooth. Then, the Maryland bridge is carefully placed, with the metal wings snugly positioned over the back of the nearby teeth and the replacement tooth fitting into the gap.
After that, the resin is hardened to firmly secure the dental restoration in place. The result is strong and can endure for many years if properly taken care of with regular maintenance and good oral hygiene. If your restoration encounters any issues, we're more than willing to assist in repairing or replacing it.
Right after your appointment, you should be able to eat and speak normally. Since the procedure doesn't involve a significant removal of your tooth enamel, you shouldn't experience much discomfort after the bridge is attached. However, as is common with dental procedures, you might notice some mild sensitivity shortly after the appointment.
Preservation of Oral Health
Restored Functionality
Aesthetically Pleasing
Customized Comfort
How Dental Bridges Work at Affleck Dental:
Comprehensive Consultation
Customized Treatment Plan
Bridge Placement with Expert Precision
Embrace Your Renewed Smile
Ready to bridge the gap and rediscover your complete smile? Schedule your consultation with us and let's build a bridge to a brighter, more confident you!
