A Maryland bridge, also known as a resin-bonded bridge, replaces a single missing tooth by bonding a thin metal or ceramic wing to the back of the tooth next door. Its main advantage is that it needs little or no drilling of the healthy neighbouring tooth, which makes it one of the most conservative fixed options for a gap. Research shows resin-bonded bridges have an estimated survival of around 88 to 91 percent at five years, and for front teeth some studies report success beyond 90 percent at twelve years or more, especially with a single-wing design.
Key takeaways
- A Maryland bridge hangs a replacement tooth off a wing bonded to one or both neighbouring teeth.
- It removes little or no healthy tooth structure, unlike a conventional bridge.
- Five-year survival is around 88 to 91 percent; the most common problem is the wing debonding, not breaking.
- It suits front teeth and low-bite-force gaps rather than heavy chewing areas.
- If it comes loose it can often simply be rebonded.
How a Maryland bridge differs from other options
A traditional bridge caps the teeth on either side of a gap, which means grinding them down. A Maryland bridge instead relies on modern bonding to hold a wing against the enamel, so the neighbouring teeth stay almost untouched. That makes it appealing for a young person who has lost a front tooth, or anyone who wants to avoid cutting into healthy teeth. It sits between a removable plate and the more permanent options in our guide to implants, bridges and dentures.
Pros and cons at a glance
| Factor | Maryland bridge | Conventional bridge | Single implant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy tooth removed | Little to none | Significant on both sides | None |
| Surgery needed | No | No | Yes |
| Typical general cost | $1,500 to $2,500 | $3,000 to $5,500 | $4,500 to $6,500 |
| Main weakness | Can debond | Drills healthy teeth | Cost and healing time |
| Best location | Front teeth | Anywhere | Anywhere |
These are general market ranges, not a Lumi quote. A written estimate follows an examination, and you can see current options on our offers page.
How long it lasts and what can go wrong
The most common issue with a Maryland bridge is the wing coming unstuck, which happens in roughly one in five cases over time. It is usually a nuisance rather than a disaster, because the bridge can often be cleaned and rebonded. Interestingly, studies find that bonding a single wing rather than two can lower the debonding rate, because it avoids the see-saw stresses that build up when two teeth flex differently. Choosing a low-force gap, keeping hard biting off the replacement tooth and good cleaning all help the bond last.
Who suits a Maryland bridge
It is a strong option when the gap is at the front, the neighbouring teeth are healthy and unfilled, and the bite is not heavy on that spot. It is less suitable for back teeth that take big chewing loads, or where the neighbouring tooth is already heavily restored and might be better served by a conventional crown-supported bridge. For a missing tooth from trauma, it is often used as a long-lasting interim while a teenager finishes growing before an implant becomes suitable.
Frequently asked questions
Will a Maryland bridge look natural?
Yes. The replacement tooth is matched to your own, and the wing sits behind the neighbouring tooth where it is not visible.
How do I clean under it?
You clean beneath the false tooth with floss threaders or an interdental brush, much like any bridge. Good cleaning also protects the bond.
What happens if it falls off?
Keep the bridge, avoid chewing on the area and see a dentist. In many cases the same bridge can be rebonded if the fit is still good.
Can I have one on a back tooth?
It is possible but less predictable, because back teeth take heavier forces that stress the bond. A dentist will advise whether another option is safer there.
Is it better than an implant?
Neither is simply better. A Maryland bridge is quicker, cheaper and avoids surgery, while an implant is more durable and stands alone. The right choice depends on the tooth, your age and the health of the neighbours.
If you have a gap at the front and want to avoid drilling healthy teeth, a Maryland bridge may be worth discussing. Book an assessment and see current options on our offers page, or compare all the fixed choices in our missing tooth guide.
