Maryland Bridges: An Alternative to Implants

Have you ever experienced having a missing tooth? 

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often the go-to solution for many. However, not everyone is a candidate for implants, with some patients preferring less invasive alternatives. 

Good thing there’s an effective restorative option today that’s less invasive than getting implants—this is called the Maryland bridge. What’s even more exciting is that Whitehorse Dental has this to help more patients achieve a refurbished smile without any surgery and hassle on their end.  

Let’s look into what Maryland dental bridge is, its benefits, and its disadvantages—and whether it is a good alternative to dental implants.   

What is a Maryland Dental Bridge? 

One popular tooth restoration available in Australia is the Maryland dental bridge. This is a type of tooth replacement where a prosthetic tooth is attached to the tooth next door using a metal or porcelain wing.  This prosthetic tooth (called a pontic) seamlessly looks like a natural tooth,  making it look like you did not have anything done.  

Traditional bridges normally require reshaping of the adjacent teeth to accommodate the crown. However, with a Maryland bridge, the procedure is far less invasive since the wings of the bridge bond to the back of the existing teeth, meaning only minimal adjustments are necessary. 

Benefits of a Maryland Dental Bridge 

If you’re considering a Maryland dental bridge, here are some of the key benefits that you can take advantage of if you’re looking for an option to restore your teeth: 

Natural-Looking Results 

The false tooth used in a Maryland bridge is designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. The bridge also feels natural in the mouth, making it an excellent option for patients looking for a discreet solution. 

Faster Procedure 

Compared to the lengthy process of getting a dental implant, a Maryland bridge can be placed in just two appointments. The first appointment involves slightly reshaping the neighbouring teeth and taking a mould. In the second appointment, typically 2 to 4 weeks later, the bridge is glued into place along with the false tooth. 

No Surgery Required 

One of the most significant advantages of a Maryland bridge is that it doesn’t require surgery. So, for patients who are looking for a replacement for their missing tooth and are anxious or unsuitable for dental surgeries, Maryland dental bridge can be your solution.  

Minimal Impact on Neighbouring Teeth 

The neighbouring teeth only need slight reshaping to accommodate the wings of the bridge, which means they remain largely intact. This makes it a conservative approach compared to traditional dental bridges that require more extensive preparation of the surrounding teeth. 

Cost-Effective 

Compared to dental implants, a Maryland bridge is generally less expensive. Maryland bridges are a great budget-friendly option for many patients, especially here at Whitehorse Dental. Despite the lower cost, it still provides a natural and functional replacement for a missing tooth. 

Disadvantages of a Maryland Bridge 

While there are clear advantages to choosing a Maryland bridge, there are also some limitations to consider: 

Not as Strong as Implants 

Since Maryland bridges rely on neighbouring teeth for support, they are not as durable as dental implants, which are directly anchored into the jawbone. For this reason, they are not recommended for replacing back teeth, which endure more pressure during chewing. 

Dentists might likely recommend Maryland dental bridges if you have missing teeth in the front or those that are easily visible. 

Relies on Neighbouring Teeth 

In order for a Maryland bridge to work, it requires a healthy neighbouring tooth for support. If these teeth are weakened or damaged, they may not be able to support the bridge effectively, which means the Maryland bridge may not be a viable option. 

Diet Considerations 

Patients with a Maryland bridge need to be a bit more cautious with their diet. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can put extra stress on the bridge and may cause it to dislodge over time. So, if you have Maryland bridges, make sure you take care of them by trying to avoid food that can be challenging to chew. 

READ MORE: MAINTAINING ORAL HEALTH WITH DENTAL CROWNS AND BRIDGES

Unsuitable for Heavy Teeth Grinders 

If you grind your teeth excessively (a condition known as bruxism), a Maryland bridge may not be suitable for you. The constant pressure from grinding can weaken the bond between the bridge and the supporting teeth, leading to potential failure. 

Maryland Bridge vs. Dental Implant: Which Restoration Option is Best for You? 

After seeing the pros and cons of Maryland dental bridges, it’s clear how beneficial they can be for people who are looking for a good option to restore missing teeth—especially when it’s on the front part. It’s also great for patients who want to avoid surgery and prefer a more conservative approach to tooth replacement. 

However, it is still important to note that dental solutions vary depending on our situation — meaning, it may not be the best option for everyone. 

Dentists will likely recommend that you go for dental implants instead if you have strong biting forces or tend to grind your teeth. A dental implant might be a more durable and long-lasting solution for that reason. 

Here are also some characteristics of dental implants: 

• Durability: Dental implants are structurally stronger as it is an independent unit that is fused to the jaw bone

• Surgery Required: Implants involve surgery, where a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to support a crown. 

• Cost: While implants offer excellent durability, they are generally more expensive than a Maryland bridge. 

• Functionality: Implants function just like natural teeth, making them an ideal choice for patients who need replacements for back teeth or who lead an active lifestyle involving biting and chewing tough foods. 

Despite all these, the best choice is to consult with your dentist first to give you guidance and clarification on which tooth replacement option is better for your case. 

An Alternative for Missing Teeth 

A Maryland dental bridge offers a practical, cost-effective solution for patients looking to replace missing teeth without surgery. Because of its characteristics and benefits, many patients have chosen this option to give their teeth a nice, new look. 

However, before you can even decide on getting this done, it’s still best to talk to your dentist first if a Maryland bridge is the right solution for you. 

Talk to us at Whitehorse Dental! We offer both Maryland bridges and dental implants, and we can help you determine which option best suits your needs. If you’re interested in learning more about your tooth replacement options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team today.