My dentist placed a Maryland bridge in March, and since that time, he replaced it twice. Is it unusual for this to occur? I cannot keep it in my mouth without falling apart. And the problem is that I am inn the middle of a treatment plan. If I leave this dentist, the work will be incomplete. I’ve already spent almost $9,00 at this practice. And I had to pay out-of-pocket costs for sedation that my insurance would not cover. My anxiety about switching dentists and prolonging the work is overwhelming. Why might a Maryland bridge repeatedly break? – Thank you. Kennedee
Kennedee,
If your dentist cannot keep your Maryland bridge in place, it is time to switch dentist. You have spent enough money at the practice.
What Is a Maryland Bridge?
A Maryland bridge is an oral appliance. Two etched metal wings suspend a false tooth in the middle. After a dentist etches the backs of teeth adjacent to the missing one, they place dental composite between the wings and the back of your teeth.
Why Does a Maryland Bridge Fall Off?
A Maryland bridge can fall off prematurely due to poor design or faulty bonding technique—or both. Your dentist can return the bridge to the laboratory to etch it again, replace the wings, or both.
Get a Second Opinion
Sedation dentistry will help you relax
We recommend that you schedule a second opinion with an accredited cosmetic dentist to examine your teeth and Maryland bridge. You can switch dentists in the middle of treatment. Your dentist is ethically and legally obligated to release your dental records. And speak with your dentist about a refund for your Maryland bridge because it does not work.
After an examination, your new dentist will recommend treatment options for replacing your missing tooth, which may or may not include a Maryland bridge. Your cosmetic dentist will understand your anxiety and explain your sedation options.
David Finley, DDS of Monroe, LA, sponsors this post.
