Bridge Terminology — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyProsthodonticsBridge TerminologyORE Part 1

In a fixed dental bridge, which statement correctly distinguishes a pontic from an abutment?

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Correct answer: B — The pontic replaces a missing tooth; the abutment supports the bridge

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · A = shown as B · E = shown as C · B = shown as D · D = shown as E

A is correct. A pontic is the artificial tooth portion of a fixed dental prosthesis that occupies the edentulous space and replaces the missing tooth. An abutment is the supporting natural tooth, or implant-supported component, to which the prosthesis is attached. B reverses these functions. C incorrectly gives tooth replacement to the abutment and retention to the pontic. D confuses functional prosthesis components with material layers; frameworks and veneering materials may be used in either abutment restorations or pontics. E is false because neither component is restricted to a single material: metal-ceramic, all-ceramic and other material combinations may be used.

Reference: Kreulen CM, Creugers NHJ. Resin-bonded fixed partial dentures. Ned Tijdschr Tandheelkd. 2013;120(2):103-111. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23495569/