A bridge is a device a dentist inserts to fill a gap where a tooth is missing. A “conventional” bridge consists of a false tooth (or teeth), known as a pontic, which is affixed to a crown on a tooth next to the gap. A “Maryland” bridge, on the other hand, is where the pontic is fixed to the teeth on either side using wings, meaning that it is not necessary to fit a crown to the other teeth. (further guidance).
Shown below is a typical case for dental bridges:
A Maryland Adhesive bridge was used to improve the aesthetics and function of her teeth.
We would recommend a bridge for cosmetic and clinical reasons. A missing tooth following an accident can obviously be unsightly and traumatic, and a bridge is an effective way to solve this problem. However, a dentist will also use a bridge in situations where it has been necessary to extract a tooth because of advanced decay. The clinical advantages of using a bridge are that it will reduce strain on the surrounding teeth, and prevent problems with the patient’s bite developing- surrounding teeth will often start to move into a gap, and food can become trapped leading to increased decay and gum disease.
Dental Implants are a better alternative to bridges in the majority of situations.
