HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is another term used to refer to a resin-bonded bridge?

1. Temporary bridge

2. Maryland bridge

3. Three-quarter crown

4. Dowel crown

The correct answer is: Maryland bridge

The term "Maryland bridge" is commonly used to refer to a resin-bonded bridge. This type of dental restoration involves a prosthetic tooth (pontic) that is anchored to the adjacent teeth through a framework of metal or porcelain that is bonded to the back surfaces of the adjacent teeth. This design minimizes the need for extensive tooth preparation, which is a significant advantage. The Maryland bridge is particularly popular because it provides a less invasive option for replacing missing teeth while offering suitable aesthetic results. The bonded framework allows for support without the necessity for full crowns on the adjacent teeth, resulting in a more conservative approach to dental restoration. In contrast, a temporary bridge is a short-term solution often used while waiting for a permanent restoration. A three-quarter crown is a type of crown that covers part of a tooth but does not qualify as a bridge. A dowel crown is a restorative method used primarily for endodontically treated teeth and does not serve the same function as a bridge in replacing a missing tooth. Thus, "Maryland bridge" is the accurate term for a resin-bonded bridge.