Maryland dental bridges are the types of dental bridges in which the dentist doesn’t alter the structure of your original teeth, making it a reversible process. The pontics, in this case, will be anchored by metallic or porcelain abutments on both sides. However, since these abutments aren’t as durable as dental crowns or implants, a maryland dental bridge isn’t as structurally sound as other types of dental bridges. These dental bridges are often used as trials before the permanent dental bridge and they’re never used to replace the molars.
Dental implant bridges are the strongest replacements for missing teeth because the dentist doesn’t have to alter the structure of any of your healthy teeth but it’s still strong and durable. During this procedure, the dentist screws a metallic or titanium post into the jawbone of the missing teeth on the outer edges. For example, if you have three missing teeth, then the dentist will plant implants on the first and third missing teeth. Over time, your jawbone naturally grows around the implant, making it a part of your dental framework. Once your jawbone has healed completely, the pontics are placed with the implants for support. However, you can only get a dental implant bridge if you have sufficient bone structure under your missing teeth. If not, you may need to get a bone graft first.