Pontic refers to a replacement artificial tooth or teeth that are mounted on a fixed or removal dental appliance. One of the main components of a dental bridge the pontic is attached to two surrounding abutments (dental crowns) to create a seamless impression of a complete set of healthy teeth. Pontics are used in both partial and complete dentures.

There are four main types of pontic: a fixed bridge in which the pontic is held between healthy teeth on both sides and can only be removed by a dental specialist a partial denture in which the pontic is held by clasps that attach to nearby teeth and is able to be removed for daily cleaning complete dentures or a set of false teeth and dental implants which are a small metal post placed into one’s jawbone in order to support either a fixed bridge or complete dentures.

Depending on the type of dental bridge received pontics are attached to one’s mouth in a variety of ways. In the most common type of dental bridge the fixed bridge is attached to two dental crowns. The bridge is held in place by the crowns fitting over the existing teeth. In the Maryland bridge design which is commonly used to replace the front teeth the pontic is attached to metal bands. These bands which are hidden with a white-colored composite resin are then bonded to the two dental crowns. In cases where teeth are present on only one side of the span a cantilever bridge is used. This type of dental bridge consists of three units including two dental crowns that are placed next to each other on the same side of the missing tooth space. Extending into the missing space the pontic is connected to these two crowns.

The benefits of replacing missing teeth with pontic(s) are numerous. If a missing tooth is not replaced it leads to the existing teeth shifting in ways that can lead to further oral problems. Crooked teeth can lead to further tooth decay and periodontal disease due to the difficulty of cleaning between them. This can further lead into other teeth loss. Pontics and their attachments provides support for facial muscles improves oral functions such as speech and chewing ability and enhances one’s facial appearance and smile.

Generally made of either plastic or ceramic materials it is important to take care of one’s pontic(s) with the same diligence of natural teeth. In order to maintain the quality of pontic(s) it is recommended that they should be cleaned every day taken out every night (if possible) and soaked overnight in either denture cleanser or in a mix of warm water and vinegar.