Please note we may not provide this service at our Farmington dental office. Call (860) 470-3660 to learn more.
A Conservative Solution for Missing Teeth
Maryland dental bridges offer a conservative and durable solution for individuals looking to replace missing teeth. With their ability to preserve natural tooth structure and provide stability, Maryland dental bridges may be recommended for specific cases. Explore our Farmington, CT, dentist’s guide to these types of dental bridges below.
Looking for a dentist near you in Farmington for custom dental bridges? Call our experienced dental practice in Farmington at (860) 470-3660 to schedule your consultation today! We’re proud to serve patients living in Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Newington, CT!
What Are Maryland Dental Bridges?
Maryland dental bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, represent a conservative approach to replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dental bridges that require dental crowns on adjacent teeth, Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of your natural teeth. This innovative tooth replacement option preserves your existing tooth structure while providing a fixed solution for missing front teeth.
Are Maryland Bridges Still Used by Dentists Near You?
While traditional bridges and dental implants have become increasingly popular, qualified dentists still use Maryland bridges for specific cases, particularly for replacing front teeth where bite forces are minimal. As your local Farmington dentist, we evaluate each patient’s unique dental needs to determine the most appropriate tooth replacement option.
Benefits of Choosing Maryland Dental Bridges in Farmington
There are benefits of Maryland dental bridges, such as:
- Conservative Treatment Approach: Maryland bridges provide a conservative tooth replacement option by preserving natural tooth structure. Unlike traditional bridges that involve significant enamel removal, they require minimal preparation, protecting healthy teeth from future dental issues.
- Quick and Comfortable Procedure: The Maryland bridge procedure is generally less invasive than other tooth replacement options. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and the treatment can often be completed in fewer office visits than traditional bridges or dental implants.
- Natural-Looking Results: Our dental laboratory creates custom bridges that match your existing teeth perfectly. The artificial teeth (pontics) are carefully crafted to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring your smile looks authentic and beautiful.
- Immediate Functional Restoration: Maryland bridges restore your ability to speak properly and chew effectively. By filling the gap left by missing teeth, these bridges help maintain a proper alignment of your remaining teeth and support your facial structure.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to dental implants or implant-supported bridges, Maryland bridges offer an affordable tooth replacement option while still providing excellent results for appropriate candidates.
Maryland Bridges vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options
If you’re debating which dental restoration to get, there are differences between Maryland bridges and other restoration options.
- Traditional Dental Bridges: While traditional bridges provide superior strength and stability through dental crowns, they require more extensive preparation of your natural teeth. Maryland bridges preserve more of your existing tooth structure but may not be suitable for areas with high bite forces.
- Dental Implants: Dental implants offer the most permanent solution and don’t affect adjacent teeth. However, they require a longer treatment timeline and higher investment. Your Farmington dentist can help determine if you’re a candidate for implants or if a Maryland bridge better suits your needs.
- Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges attach to teeth on only one side of the gap, while Maryland bridges typically attach to teeth on both sides, providing better stability for front teeth replacement.
The Maryland Bridge Procedure
Initial Consultation with Your Local Dentist
During your first visit, our experienced dental team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your dental needs, and examine the condition of your adjacent teeth. We’ll take detailed impressions and photographs to plan your treatment.
Minimal Tooth Preparation
Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridge preparation requires only minimal enamel removal from your abutment teeth. This conservative approach preserves your natural tooth structure while creating the necessary space for proper bonding.
Custom Bridge Creation
Your impressions are sent to our trusted dental laboratory, where skilled technicians create your custom bridge. The pontic (replacement tooth) is designed to match your natural teeth perfectly in color, shape, and size.
Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, we may place a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and maintain aesthetics.
Final Bridge Fitting and Bonding
Once your custom bridge arrives from the laboratory, we’ll carefully check the fit and make any necessary adjustments. The bridge is then permanently bonded to your adjacent teeth using high-quality dental cement.
Follow-up Care and Monitoring
Regular dental visits ensure your new Maryland bridge functions properly and maintains optimal oral health. Our team provides detailed care instructions to help your bridge last for many years.
Who Should Consider Maryland Dental Bridges in Farmington?
Ideal candidates for Maryland dental bridges include:
- Patients with missing front teeth
- Individuals with healthy, strong adjacent teeth
- Those seeking a conservative tooth replacement option
- Patients who want to avoid extensive dental work
- People looking for an affordable alternative to dental implants
Factors That May Affect Candidacy:
- Overall oral health and gum disease status
- Condition of surrounding teeth
- Bite forces and grinding habits
- Long-term oral health goals
Caring for Your Maryland Bridge: Tips from Your Farmington Dentist
Proper care ensures your Maryland bridge lasts many years and maintains optimal function:
- Daily Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss carefully around the bridge
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine cleanings and examinations
- Avoid Hard Foods: Protect your bridge from excessive forces
- Use Protective Appliances: Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Professional Maintenance: Allow your dental team to monitor the bridge’s condition
Frequently Asked Questions
While Maryland dental bridges are considered permanent in the sense that they are not removable by the patient, they may not last a lifetime. The longevity of a bridge depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, and general oral health. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a Maryland bridge can last for many years.
The process of getting a Maryland dental bridge is typically not painful. Local anesthesia is used during the preparation phase to ensure you are comfortable and don’t feel any pain or discomfort. After the procedure, there might be some mild sensitivity or discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the new bridge, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Bridge costs vary based on materials, complexity, and individual needs. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed treatment plan with transparent pricing. Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for tooth replacement procedures.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after Maryland bridge placement. Any sensitivity usually resolves within a few days. Our dental team provides detailed post-treatment instructions and is available for any concerns.
Schedule Your Maryland Bridge Consultation Today
Don’t let missing teeth affect your confidence and oral health. If you’re searching for a dentist near you in Farmington, CT, for Maryland dental bridges or other tooth replacement options, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact our Farmington dental practice today at (860) 470-3660 to schedule your comprehensive consultation. We proudly serve patients throughout Hartford County, including Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Newington, CT.