NavigationMaryland (Resin-bonded) Bridges
The Maryland Bridge, also referred to as Resin-bonded Bridge,was developed to avoid the trimming and crowning of otherwise intact adjacent teeth while providing a “fixed” support for the replacement teeth (pontics).The procedure is considered reversible.If the bridge is removed, the natural teeth are virtually unaltered.
The Maryland Bridge utilizes thin metal wings formed to, and applied against, the tongue side of the adjacent teeth.The wings support the replacement teeth.The metal wings are chemically etched and the enamel is also chemically etched as in routine bonding procedures, to create microscopic crevices. Composite resin is allowed to flow into the crevices of both surfaces and, upon setting, bonds the etched wings to the etched enamel for the long-term restoration of the missing tooth or teeth.
Dr. Livaditis, along with Dr Van Thompson, were the co-developers of the the resin-bonded bridge in the early 1980’s. It is commonly referred to as the Maryland bridge as it was developed at the University of Maryland, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery.
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The lower front tooth was replaced with a resin-bonded bridge. The metal wings are not visible during normal speaking and chewing. The enamel on all surfaces remain intact with minimal alteration to the supporting teeth. (By Dr. Livaditis).
The missing four incisors (left) were replaced with a minimally invasive resin-bonded bridge (middle). The metal framework was extended onto two teeth on each side of the space to provide more support for the wide span being restored. (By Dr. Livaditis)
