ポンティックの形態についての一考察

―上顎前歯部3～4歯欠損―

抄録

When replacing anterior teeth with a bridge, attention should be paid not only to masticatory efficiency and speech but also to esthetics, which is sometimes even more important than the other factors. Since resorption of the alveolar ridges occurs following the loss of roots, the loss can not be properly replaced by a pontic having the form of the anatomical crown. Furthermore, as the number of missing teeth increases, resorption of the alveolar ridges becomes further advanced, making it more important to consider not only the relationship between the labial surfaces of the pontics and the alveolar ridges, but also restoring the esthetics of the lips and complexion by providing sufficient restoration of lip support.
The forms of pontics that meet these conditions are not necessarily hygienic, thus requiring additional attention to plaque control.
With these details in mind, pontics replacing a loss of three or four anterior teeth are discussed.