
A baby tooth was lost here at age 40. An implant was out of the question. A conventional bridge would require heavy cutting of the teeth either side of the gap. The patient also did not want a denture. Dr Kim Davies opted to do a minimally invasive retained “Maryland Bridge”.
The false tooth was bonded onto the premolar tooth (behind the gap) using a metal wing.
This type of bridge uses a minimal approach, cutting 2 slots into the tooth to allow the metal wing to grip. Adhesive resin holds the wing tight onto the tooth. Normally the metal would not be visible, however this photo (top) was taken from a low angle to demonstrate where the metal was bonded. The patient was very satisfied with the outcome.
Same day bridge
Here a loose baby tooth was removed and the bridge was placed at the same appointment. This did require a preparation appointment to take the mould 2 weeks prior to placement of the bridge. Minimal intervention dentistry saves teeth for longer and lessens the risk of nerve damage. Bytes Dental Ballina and Lismore provide this service – ask for Dr Kim Davies. Open Saturdays.
