Pontic
Definition
The artificial tooth in a fixed bridge that spans the gap left by a missing tooth. The pontic is not attached to bone; it is supported by the bridge framework cemented to the adjacent abutment teeth. Its presence on a radiograph is a distinctive charting feature.
- Location
- Artificial tooth in a fixed bridge
- Bone attachment
- None, supported by abutment teeth
- Forensic value
- Distinctive radiographic charting feature
Common questions
How does a pontic help in identification?+
Its shape, position and the bridge framework supporting it show up clearly on a radiograph and can be cross-checked against a dental record, giving examiners a specific point of comparison beyond natural tooth anatomy.
How is a pontic different from a dental implant?+
An implant is anchored directly into the jawbone, while a pontic has no bone contact of its own; it is cemented to the adjacent natural teeth via the bridge structure.
Related terms
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- INTERPOL DVI
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- Post-Mortem Dental Record
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- Restoration Surface
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