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Crown and Bridgework - Getting it Right the First Time
Advancements in Cantilever Bridges
Cemented vs Screw Mount Implant Bridges
Pictures: Bad Bridgework
Dental Bridges - Pros and Cons
Super Glue Bridge Fix?
Question:
I've had Maryland Bridges on two upper teeth for 10 years. Yearly I will need to have them recemented or glued back. But, ultimately they will not last as long as I would prefer before I'm back in the dental chair. I'm wondering if implants are the answer. Unfortunately I hear they can be costly.
My Marylands do just fine. I wish they would stay cemented for longer periods of time, 3-5 years not 6 months to 1 year. Is there a better cement for the Marylands to stay bonded better? Are implants a better choice? ...Andrea in OK
Answer:
Andrea, as long as the Maryland bridges are not causing cavities or problems to the adjacent teeth, they are the most conservative treatment. In order to get
them to stay put, your bite must be properly adjusted. Have your dentist
carefully evaluate your occlusion (bite), especially on the wings and pontic of the bridge.
Next, have your dentist microetch the bridge and your teeth with a microetcher machine. The teeth and the wings of the bridge must be properly cleaned and etched!!! Second have him/her etch your teeth with HF acid as well as Phosphoric Acid.
Next, he/she must use a product called Metabond (made by Parkell). The instructions must be followed directly and a product called EtchFree must be placed on the wings of the bridge to improve retention. After this, the Metabond cement should be able to retain your bridge as long as there are no cracks or weak spots. This cement works wonders, but it costs about $100 per use.
Think of implants as a last resort, but as a better alternative than a regular bridge, where you have to shave / grind down your teeth. Not all implants are successful, some do fail once in a while.
Editorial Staff
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