Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pontic
Pronunciation: PON-tik
The artificial tooth in a fixed bridge that spans the gap left by a missing tooth, suspended between abutment crowns.
Full Definition
A pontic is the false tooth component of a fixed partial denture (bridge) that replaces a missing natural tooth. It is attached to and supported by abutment crowns on either side. Pontics may be designed to rest on the gum tissue (tissue-bearing) or be suspended above it (sanitary/hygienic design). Editors should note that 'pontic' is always lowercase and used as a noun. The plural is 'pontics.'
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with 'abutment,' which refers to the supporting teeth or implants adjacent to the pontic.
In Context
- "The laboratory prescription specified a porcelain-fused-to-metal pontic with a modified ridge-lap base." — Laboratory work order
- "The technician confirmed that the pontic occlusion was adjusted before final glazing." — QA checklist
Also known as
dummy tooth
false tooth (bridge component)
Don't confuse with
abutment
retainer crown