What does it replace?
A missing crown within a fixed bridge.
← All explanationsPontic
Which part of a bridge replaces the missing tooth?
A pontic is the artificial tooth in a fixed dental bridge that spans a tooth gap. It is connected to the supporting parts of the bridge and has no natural tooth root of its own.
For training & practice ↓
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Choose a view
Across the gap
The pontic replaces the missing crown. It is supported by the bridge construction; teeth or implants may act as abutments depending on the plan.
Contact with the gums
The underside is shaped for the site, function and cleaning. Some designs contact the tissues in a controlled way; others leave space. More pressure does not mean better retention.
Cleaning beneath the bridge
The area beneath the pontic must remain accessible for cleaning. Your practice can demonstrate suitable aids. Mention bleeding, pain or persistent food trapping.
Read the full explanation
Across the gap
The pontic replaces the missing crown. It is supported by the bridge construction; teeth or implants may act as abutments depending on the plan.
Contact with the gums
The underside is shaped for the site, function and cleaning. Some designs contact the tissues in a controlled way; others leave space. More pressure does not mean better retention.
Cleaning beneath the bridge
The area beneath the pontic must remain accessible for cleaning. Your practice can demonstrate suitable aids. Mention bleeding, pain or persistent food trapping.
Notes on the teaching images
- Example of a bridge with a hygienic pontic clear of the gum. Simplified teaching model.
At a glance
How is it supported?
By connection to the supporting bridge components.
What matters day to day?
Cleaning below the pontic and around the abutments.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Pontic or abutment?
The pontic spans the gap. An abutment is the tooth or implant supporting the bridge.
Quick answers
Does a pontic have a root?
No. It replaces the visible crown in the gap and connects to the rest of the bridge.
Can decay develop underneath?
The artificial pontic itself cannot decay. Natural supporting teeth and their margins remain susceptible and need cleaning and review.
Must it touch the gum?
That depends on the design. Shape and contact are planned to balance function, appearance and cleanability.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
How can I clean reliably beneath my pontic?
An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Pontic
- Artificial replacement tooth within a bridge.
- Connector
- Part linking the pontic with the supporting bridge components.
Make the distinction
The pontic spans the gap. An abutment is the tooth or implant supporting the bridge.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.