Overview

A Maryland bridge is a great dental restoration and looks good, but it’s longevity and function depends on proper care and maintenance. While the bridge itself is low maintenance, specific cleaning routines, dietary habits and regular dental visits will keep it in great shape for years. Here we’ll go over how to care for your Maryland bridge, what to watch out for and best practices.

Why Maintenance Matters

Caring for your Maryland bridge is important for:

1. Keeping the Bond: The adhesive holding the wings to the adjacent teeth can break down over time if not maintained properly.
2. Preventing Gum Disease: Plaque accumulation around the bridge can cause gum infections or decay in the supporting teeth.
3. Longevity: Regular care can keep your bridge for 10 years or more.

Daily Care for a Maryland Bridge

1. Brushing

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
• Focus on the pontic (false tooth) and the back sides of the adjacent teeth where the wings are bonded.

2. Flossing

• Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to floss beneath the pontic and around the wings.
• Flossing prevents plaque buildup and protects the supporting teeth from decay.

3. Rinsing

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in hard to reach areas and your gums.

Special Tools for Bridge Maintenance

1. Floss Threaders: Allows you to get under the pontic and along the gumline.
2. Interdental Brushes: Helps clean between the pontic and adjacent teeth.
3. Water Flossers: Uses a stream of water to remove debris around the bridge, especially under the false tooth.
4. Electric Toothbrushes: Thorough cleaning with less effort, great for getting around bonded wings.

Dietary Habits for Your Maryland Bridge

Foods to Avoid

• Sticky Foods: Caramel, toffee and chewing gum can pull at the adhesive bond.
• Hard Foods: Don’t bite into hard objects like ice, nuts or candies which can stress the bridge.
• Sugary Foods: Limit sugar to reduce risk of decay on the supporting teeth.

Foods to Eat

• Soft Fruits and Veggies: Applesauce, bananas and cooked carrots are gentle on the bridge.
• Protein Foods: Eggs, fish and yogurt are nutritious without the risk of damage.
• Whole Grains: Soft whole grain bread and rice are safe and good for overall oral health.

Regular Visits

How Often

• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams.

What to Expect

• Professional Cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar around the bridge.
• Bridge Checkup: Your dentist will check for wear, debonding or damage to the supporting teeth.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

1. Loose Bonding

• Cause: The adhesive holding the wings can break down from biting forces or improper care.
• Solution: See your dentist as soon as possible for re-bonding. Don’t bite on the bridge until it’s fixed.

2. Gum Irritation

• Cause: Improper cleaning can cause plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
• Solution: Improve your oral hygiene habits, floss and rinse.

3. Discoloration

• Cause: Staining from food and drinks like coffee and red wine.
• Solution: Use non-abrasive toothpaste and schedule professional cleanings to get the bridge looking like new.

4. Wear and Tear

• Cause: Natural wear from chewing over time.
• Solution: If the bridge is showing wear, your dentist may recommend replacement.

How to Damage Your Maryland Bridge

1. Stop Grinding

• Problem: Grinding (bruxism) can stress the adhesive bond and supporting teeth.
• Solution: Use a custom made nightguard to protect your bridge while you sleep.

2. Don’t Bite Down

• Don’t use your bridge to bite into hard or chewy foods. Chewing with your back teeth can help distribute the pressure evenly.

3. Prevent Sports Injuries

• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your bridge and natural teeth from impact.

How to Spot Early Warning Signs

1. Looseness: If the bridge feels loose, it may be a sign the adhesive bond has broken down.
2. Sensitivity: Discomfort in the supporting teeth means decay or gum issues.
3. Gaps: Visible gaps between the bridge and gums can trap food and decay.

If you notice any of these signs, see your dentist as soon as possible to fix the problem before it gets worse.

How Long Does a Maryland Bridge Last?

Average Lifespan

• 5-10 years with proper care, some can last longer with good maintenance.

Factors that Affect Lifespan

• Oral Hygiene: Your daily cleaning habits have a big impact on the bridge’s lifespan.
• Dietary Habits: Avoiding damaging foods reduces stress on the adhesive bond.
• Dental Visits: Regular check-ups catch problems early.

Repair and Replacement Cost

• Re-Bonding: $100-$300 per visit depending on the extent.
• Replacement: $1,000-$2,500 same as the original bridge.

Preventive care can save you from costly repairs and replacements.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Bridge Maintenance

Conclusion

Taking care of your Maryland bridge means sticking to a daily oral hygiene routine, avoiding damaging foods and seeing your dentist regularly. By doing so you can prevent common problems, extend the life of the bridge and keep your smile looking great. With good care a Maryland bridge can last for years and years.