I got a Maryland bridge in 2021. I have delayed getting a bite plate, even though I realize it would help protect my teeth from heavy grinding at night. A few weeks ago, my dentist placed two crowns and adjusted my bite to make it comfortable. During that adjustment, he removed a small amount from the tooth on my Maryland bridge. While flossing the next morning, I noticed a silver spot showing through the bridge tooth.
My dentist told me my grinding had worn away the bridge tooth, but the timing makes me doubt it. He covered the area with bonded composite, yet the silver is already showing through again. After more than twenty-five years without this issue, I am concerned about how it could appear overnight—especially right after the bite adjustment.
I want to protect my oral health and handle this situation respectfully, but I’m unsure how to discuss my concerns because my dentist believes grinding is the cause. I would truly appreciate guidance on whether this could happen so suddenly and on how to have a constructive conversation with my dentist about it. – Thanks. Magdelana S. from PA
Magdelana – Although we cannot examine your bridge, the sequence of events suggests that the bite adjustment weakened the porcelain. Nighttime grinding may have removed the remaining thin layer, but the earlier adjustment likely set the stage for the exposure.
It is common to feel hesitant about challenging a dentist’s explanation. Respect for professional authority can make these conversations difficult, even when you want clarity.
Why Get a Second Opinion for Your Crown?
A second opinion provides objective information and reduces emotional tension. Many dentists offer this service briefly and without charge, especially when the goal is clarification rather than criticism.
Ask the evaluating dentist to check the porcelain surface around the exposed metal. They will specifically look for:
- Smooth glazed porcelain that resists marking from a metal explorer
- Surface scratches from a dental bur, which indicate grinding during adjustment
Clear clinical evidence makes follow-up discussion easier and more constructive. Presenting another professional’s findings calmly often leads to cooperation rather than defensiveness. Importantly, this type of complication is understandable and not uncommon in dentistry.
Is Crown Repair Possible?
Maryland Bridge
Repairing exposed metal is possible but technique-sensitive. Composite alone will not adhere to untreated metal and typically fails quickly. Long-lasting repair requires specialized bonding methods.
A careful repair generally involves:
- Slightly enlarging the exposed area to allow material thickness
- Micro-etching the metal surface for retention
- Applying a metal primer and opaque bonding cement such as Panavia
- Layering color-matched composite, then shaping and polishing
Even when performed correctly, repairs can fail. In some situations, replacing the bridge offers greater durability.
The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.
