Maryland & Rochette Bridges

What Is a Maryland or Rochette Bridge?

A Maryland bridge is a type of adhesive bridge used to replace a missing tooth. Instead of placing crowns over the neighbouring teeth, the replacement tooth is attached to one or more wings that are bonded to the back surfaces of supporting teeth.

A Rochette bridge is a similar type of adhesive bridge. It uses a framework with perforations that allow the bonding material to provide retention.

Both types of bridge are designed to replace a missing tooth while generally requiring less preparation of the neighbouring teeth than a conventional bridge.

When Might You Need a Maryland or Rochette Bridge?

An adhesive bridge may be considered when you have a missing tooth and suitable supporting teeth are available.

They can be particularly useful in selected cases where a more conservative approach to replacing a missing tooth is preferred.

A bridge may help restore:

• The appearance of your smile
• The space created by a missing tooth
• Some chewing function
• The overall appearance of the dental arch

Your dentist will assess your individual circumstances before recommending this type of bridge.

What Does "Per Unit" Mean?

A bridge is made up of individual components or units. The replacement tooth is one unit, while additional units may relate to the supporting structure depending on the design of the bridge.

The number of units required depends on the position of the missing tooth and the type of bridge being planned.

During your consultation, your dentist will explain the proposed bridge design, the number of units required and the treatment involved.

What Happens During Treatment?

Your dentist will first examine your teeth, gums and bite and assess the space left by the missing tooth. The supporting teeth will also be checked to determine whether they are suitable for an adhesive bridge.

If a Maryland or Rochette bridge is appropriate, measurements or impressions will be taken so that the restoration can be made to fit your mouth.

The bridge is then bonded to the supporting tooth or teeth. Your dentist will check the fit, appearance and bite before completing the treatment.

The exact process will depend on the type of bridge and your individual dental needs.

Benefits of Maryland and Rochette Bridges

For suitable cases, adhesive bridges can offer several benefits:

• Conservative approach: They generally require less preparation of the supporting teeth than conventional bridges.
• Fixed tooth replacement: The bridge is bonded to the supporting teeth rather than designed to be removed by the patient.
• Natural-looking option: The replacement tooth can be designed to complement your surrounding teeth.
• Suitable for selected missing teeth: Your dentist can assess whether this type of bridge is appropriate for the position of your missing tooth.
• No surgery required: Unlike a dental implant, an adhesive bridge does not involve implant placement surgery.

Is a Maryland or Rochette Bridge Right for You?

An adhesive bridge is not suitable for every patient or every missing tooth. Your dentist will consider factors such as the position of the missing tooth, the condition of the supporting teeth, your bite and the amount of space available.

Other tooth replacement options may also be discussed, including a conventional bridge, dental implant or denture.

At GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic, we will explain the available options and help you understand the benefits and limitations of each before you decide on treatment.

Looking After Your Bridge

Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining the supporting teeth and gums around your bridge. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean carefully around the bridge and between your teeth.

Your dentist can advise you on suitable cleaning techniques and interdental cleaning aids for your particular bridge.

Regular dental examinations also allow your dentist to check the bridge, supporting teeth and surrounding gums.