Maryland Bridges
Maryland Bridges are frequently placed to fill a space where an adult tooth did not erupt. Maryland bridges are considered a cosmetic treatment and are sometimes an interim step in the treatment of teenagers until they are old enough to qualify for implant placement. An acrylic tooth of a matching shade is aligned with the surrounding teeth and bonded to the backside of those teeth, giving the appearance of a natural tooth. The bridge remains bonded in the mouth until it is time for implant placement. Patients should be careful to avoid opening packages, chewing on pens or any similar activities, as these can damage the bridge or cause it to come off. Brushing the bridge in the same manner as brushing natural teeth is recommended because the acrylic tooth can stain overtime.