Pontic
Pronunciation: PON-tik
The artificial tooth component of a fixed dental bridge that spans the edentulous space and is supported by retainer crowns on abutment teeth.
Full Definition
A pontic is the suspended, tooth-shaped unit within a fixed partial denture (bridge) that occupies the site of a missing tooth. It does not contact the underlying bone or soft tissue in all designs — contact configurations (sanitary, ovate, ridge-lap, modified ridge-lap) are typically specified in laboratory prescriptions and prosthetic case notes. Editors working on dental laboratory instructions or prosthodontic case reports should ensure the correct pontic design designation is transcribed accurately, as different designs have clinical and hygienic implications.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use 'pontic' to describe implant-supported crowns, which contact bone directly.
In Context
- "The laboratory prescription specified an ovate pontic design to optimize tissue aesthetics." — Dental laboratory prescription
- "A three-unit bridge comprising two retainers and one pontic was treatment-planned for the upper right quadrant." — Prosthodontic treatment plan