Haftbrücke

Haftbrücke, in dentistry, refers to a bonded dental bridge that replaces a missing tooth with minimal or no preparation of the adjacent teeth. It is also known in English as an adhesive bridge or resin-bonded bridge, commonly marketed as a Maryland bridge.

Design and function

A Haftbrücke consists of a pontic (the artificial tooth) connected to two thin wings that are bonded to the lingual or palatal surfaces of the adjacent teeth. The wings are typically made of metal alloy with porcelain facing or of all-ceramic materials. The restoration is held in place by adhesive resin cement and bonding agents, allowing the adjacent teeth to be preserved and the tooth gap to be closed without extensive grinding.

Indications and limitations

This type of bridge is usually considered for replacing a single missing tooth in the anterior region, where aesthetics are important and the adjacent teeth have sufficient enamel for bonding. It is favored when the patient desires a conservative approach and reversible treatment. Limitations include its dependence on good enamel for bonding, higher risk of debonding or fracture under heavy biting forces, and limited suitability for posterior areas or multiple missing teeth. Longevity varies and is influenced by occlusion, oral hygiene, and adhesive quality.

Procedure

Treatment typically involves two phases: evaluation and tooth preparation with minimal or no reduction of the abutment teeth, followed by impression taking for lab fabrication of the wings and pontic. A subsequent appointment involves cementing the wings to the adjacent teeth using adhesive resin cement and ensuring proper bite alignment.

Relation to alternatives

Haftbrücken are contrasted with conventional fixed bridges that require more tooth reduction or with dental implants. They offer a conservative option with esthetic appeal, but may be less durable in some cases and are not suitable for all patients.