Another option to replace a single tooth is a Resin-Bonded Bridge, known as a Bonded Bridge or a Maryland Bridge. Maryland bridge can only be used when you have a natural tooth on each side of the gap caused by the missing tooth or teeth.
Resin bonded/retained bridges are a minimally invasive option for replacing missing teeth and were first described over 30 years ago. With improvements in the field of adhesive dentistry, resin-bonded bridgework has become a viable option for the long-term replacement of missing teeth. A resin bonded/retained bridge is also known as a ‘sticky bridge’. The replacement tooth has metal wings on one or both sides which are stuck to the tooth next to it (adjacent).
Procedure of Resin-Bonded Bridge
In order to make a sticky bridge, we may need to reshape the adjacent teeth which will the wings of the bridge will attach onto. The reshaping is minimal and sticky bridges are generally considered a very conservative (less destructive) type of treatment. We will then take moulds of your teeth and when the bridge has been made in the laboratory, we will provide you with another appointment so that the bridge can be stuck in place.
Advantage of Resin-Bonded Prostheses
Resin bonded bridges can be highly effective in replacing missing teeth, restoring oral function and aesthetics and result in high levels of patient satisfaction. They represent a minimally invasive, cost effective and long lasting treatment modality.Minimal tooth preparation is required and so they can usually be considered a reversible procedure. As dentine preparation is not involved, the integrity of a young pulp is maintained. Anaesthesia is not normally required. Soft tissues are not disturbed which simplifies impression procedures,and margins are supra gingival, facilitating plaque removal.
