Fixed Prosthodontics Key Terms

Fixed Prosthodontics Key Terms

• Cast Pore: A preformed post that enhances retention for a cast restoration in endodontically treated teeth.
• Core: A buildup of restorative material to provide a larger retention area for permanent crowns.
• Die: A replica of the tooth prepared for lab use in creating cast restorations.
• Abutment: A tooth, root, or implant that supports a fixed or removable prosthesis.
• Articulator: A dental device that mimics the movements of the mandible and temporomandibular joint.
• Fixed Bridge: A prosthetic device with artificial teeth, cemented permanently to natural teeth.
• Gingival Retractor Cord: Displaces gingival tissues away from teeth for better visibility and access.
• Full Crown: A cast restoration that encompasses the entire anatomical portion of a single tooth.
• Inlay: A cast restoration that conservatively restores a Class II cavity.
• Hypertrophied: Refers to overgrown or excessive tissue.
• Master Cast: Created from a final impression, it is used to fabricate baseplates, bite rims, wax setups, and finished prostheses.
• Investment Material: A specialized gypsum material capable of withstanding extreme heat during casting.
• Pontic: An artificial tooth in a bridge that replaces a missing natural tooth.
• Porcelain Fused to Metal: An indirect restoration combining porcelain material with the facial portion of a gold crown.
• Veneer: A tooth-colored layer bonded to the prepared facial surface of a tooth.
• Onlay: A cast restoration that restores the occlusal crown and proximal surfaces of a posterior tooth.
• Resin Bonded Bridge: Also known as a Maryland bridge, it has winglike projections bonded to the lingual surfaces of adjacent teeth.
• Opaquer: A resin material placed under porcelain restorations to prevent tooth discoloration from showing through.
• 3/4 Crown: A cast restoration covering all but one portion (facial or buccal) of a tooth's anatomic crown.
• Unit: Each individual component of a fixed bridge.
• Crown and Bridge: The fixed prosthesis is commonly referred to by this term.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: A contraindication for receiving fixed prostheses due to increased risk of complications.
• Rotary Instruments: Used for modifying the height and contour of a tooth in preparation for casting.
• Post and Core: Fabricated and placed in the pulp of a nonvital tooth for improved crown retention.
• Hemodent: An astringent applied to a retraction cord to manage bleeding during procedures.
• Final Impression: The last impression taken for sending to a lab in preparation for a crown.
• Lab Rx: Documentation that informs the lab tech of the specific crown type to be made according to the dentist's specifications.
• Provisional: Temporary restoration placed on a prepared tooth while the crown or bridge is being fabricated.
• Dentist: The professional in the dental office authorized to cement permanent crowns or bridges legally.
• Two: The minimum number of appointments typically required for the fabrication of a fixed bridge.
• Floss Threader: An accessory designed to facilitate flossing around a dental bridge.