Pontic
Pronunciation: PON-tik
The artificial tooth suspended between abutments in a fixed partial denture, replacing a missing natural tooth.
Full Definition
A pontic is the dummy tooth component of a fixed partial denture (bridge) that occupies the edentulous space and restores aesthetics and function. It is not in direct contact with the underlying bone but may rest on, be slightly off, or be entirely away from the residual ridge depending on pontic design. Editors should note that pontic design types—such as saddle, ridge-lap, modified ridge-lap, ovate, and hygienic—carry distinct clinical implications and should be transcribed precisely. The term derives from the Latin 'pons' (bridge).
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from 'abutment' (the supporting tooth) and 'retainer' (the crown that connects the pontic to the abutment). All three terms are components of a fixed partial denture.
In Context
- "An ovate pontic was designed to create the illusion of a tooth emerging from healthy gingival tissue." — Laboratory prescription
- "The modified ridge-lap pontic design was selected for ease of cleaning by the patient." — Prosthodontic treatment note