What is a Maryland Bridge?

When a tooth is missing, there are a few ways to fill the gap—and one lesser-known but effective option is the Maryland bridge in St. Paul, MN. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on crowns placed over the neighboring teeth, a Maryland bridge uses a more conservative design that preserves more of your natural tooth structure.

How It Works

A Maryland bridge consists of a false tooth (called a pontic) held in place by thin metal or ceramic wings that are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. These wings provide support without the need to reshape or crown the neighboring teeth. Because there’s minimal alteration to your existing teeth, it’s often a good choice for younger patients or anyone who prefers a less invasive approach.

Who It’s For

Maryland bridges are commonly used to replace front teeth where bite pressure is lower. They’re typically not recommended for back teeth, which handle more force when chewing. If you’ve lost a front tooth due to injury or decay and want a fixed solution that looks natural, this type of bridge might be a great fit.

Benefits to Consider

This option is often less expensive than implants and involves no surgery. The process is usually quicker, and because the supporting teeth aren’t heavily altered, it’s considered a more conservative form of treatment.

It’s also a great solution as a quick fix, since it can be completed in just one visit. With care, a Maryland bridge can last for several years.

Talk to Your Dentist

If you’re exploring ways to replace a missing tooth, ask your dentist in St. Paul, MN whether a Maryland bridge is right for you. It may offer the balance of function, appearance, and comfort you’re looking for—without the extra work required by more invasive treatments.

Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridge

Are you dealing with tooth loss? If so, you certainly aren’t alone. This is a problem that many people face today. If you’re facing this issue, choosing a trusted tooth replacement solution is important. Some of the most popular options today include dental implants and a dental bridge.

Contact St. Anthony Park Dental Care today if you’re interested in one of these oral appliances! We offer the most reliable dental bridges and dental implants in St Paul, MN!

This post will discuss the differences between dental implants and a dental bridge.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth structure consisting of a metal post, abutment, and dental crown. The post is surgically placed into your jawbone to mimic the function of a natural tooth. Your bone fuses with the implant over time, creating a durable and long-lasting dental device.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Getting a dental bridge is a less invasive procedure that doesn’t involve surgery. However, they’re much less durable. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth structure that connects to the teeth around the missing space. A dentist places two crowns on either side of the missing space with a false tooth in the middle, creating a “bridge” over the socket.

Choosing the Best Option

If you want a more durable solution, go for dental implants. They typically last for over 15 years! A bridge usually needs to be replaced every 5 to 7 years. However, a dental bridge is much more affordable when it comes to pricing. Additionally, the process of receiving dental implants can last 6 months or longer, while a dental bridge can be finished in only a few weeks.

No matter which option you’re interested in, contact St. Anthony Park Dental Care today to work with the top dentist in St Paul, MN!

Missing a Tooth? What to Know About Dental Bridges and Implants

It’s important to fill the gap when you’re missing a tooth. Installing a prosthetic tooth can make talking and eating easier. A prosthetic tooth can also restore your smile and prevent your other teeth from shifting to fill the hole where the tooth used to be.

Yourdentist in St. Paul, MN, may present you with multiple options, including a dental bridge or a dental implant. Here’s what you need to know about both options to make an informed decision.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that uses dental crowns attached to the adjacent teeth to stay in place. The bridge sits on top of the gums, but it looks like a natural tooth. To install a dental bridge, your dentist will need the teeth on either side of the hole to be healthy and strong. Your dentist will let you know if a dental bridge is an option for you.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that is implanted into the jaw bone, similar to a real tooth. To install a dental implant, the dentist must determine that you have sufficient jaw bone to keep the tooth in place. If you don’t have sufficient jaw bone, your dentist can use a bone graft to build up the jaw. However, this is an additional procedure.

Which One Should I Get?

Your dentist will help you decide which type of prosthetic tooth – dental implants or dental bridges – is best. If you have questions about dental bridges anddental implants in St. Paul, MN, talk to your dentist to learn more about your options and make an informed decision.