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Bridges
Dental bridges are a reliable way to replace one or more missing teeth and restore a natural-looking smile. At Shawnee Dental in Calgary, we use custom dental bridges to help you chew comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain a healthy bite. By filling the gap, a bridge can also help prevent nearby teeth from shifting and reduce future dental problems.
Benefits: A Confident, Functional Smile
Restores comfortable chewing: With the gap filled, you can bite and chew more evenly again. That means less strain on the remaining teeth and jaw. Many patients notice meals feel easier and more enjoyable.
Improves speech clarity: Missing teeth can change the way air flows and how your tongue forms certain sounds. A bridge helps restore natural spacing so words feel easier to pronounce. The result is clearer speech and more confidence in conversation.
Keeps nearby teeth from shifting: Teeth naturally move toward open spaces over time. A bridge helps stabilize the area so surrounding teeth are less likely to tilt or drift. That can protect your bite and reduce future dental complications.
Enhances your smile’s appearance: Bridges are crafted to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth. They fill in gaps in a way that looks seamless when you talk, laugh, or smile. That visual improvement often boosts confidence quickly.
A durable, long-term solution: When cared for properly, bridges can last for many years. They’re made from strong, tooth-like materials designed to handle daily use. Routine checkups and good home care help keep your bridge performing its best.
Process: What to Expect From Start to Finish
Consultation and planning: We’ll start with an exam and a conversation about your goals. CBCT scans and/or 3D imaging help us evaluate the teeth, gums, and bone around the missing space. Then we’ll recommend the best bridge option for your needs.
Preparing the supporting teeth (if needed: )If your bridge will be supported by natural teeth, those teeth may be gently reshaped to make room for the bridge. We take care to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Your comfort is a priority throughout the visit.
Precise impressions or digital scans: Next, we capture detailed impressions or scans so your bridge fits naturally and comfortably. This information guides the lab in creating the right shape, bite alignment, and tooth shade. Accuracy here is key to a bridge that feels “just right.”
Temporary protection while your bridge is made: In many cases, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and keep you smiling. It also helps you chew more normally while your final restoration is being crafted. We’ll share easy tips for caring for it during this short phase.
Final placement and bite adjustment: When your custom bridge is ready, we’ll place it and check how it looks and feels. Small adjustments may be made so your bite is balanced and comfortable. Once everything fits properly, we secure the bridge in place.
Aftercare and ongoing maintenance: We’ll show you how to clean around and under the bridge to keep the area healthy. Regular exams allow us to monitor the bridge and supporting teeth over time. With good hygiene and routine care, your bridge can stay strong for years.
