Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of a pontic in a dental bridge?
What is the primary function of a pontic in a dental bridge?
According to the principles of prosthodontics, which crown-to-root ratio represents the least supportive option for an abutment tooth?
According to the principles of prosthodontics, which crown-to-root ratio represents the least supportive option for an abutment tooth?
Why are endodontically treated teeth generally discouraged from being used as abutments for dental bridges?
Why are endodontically treated teeth generally discouraged from being used as abutments for dental bridges?
What is the meaning of the term 'retainer' in the context of a dental bridge?
What is the meaning of the term 'retainer' in the context of a dental bridge?
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According to Ante's Law, what principle should guide the selection of abutment teeth for a fixed partial denture (bridge)?
According to Ante's Law, what principle should guide the selection of abutment teeth for a fixed partial denture (bridge)?
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In which clinical scenario would a removable partial denture (RPD) be MOST suitable, compared to a fixed dental bridge?
In which clinical scenario would a removable partial denture (RPD) be MOST suitable, compared to a fixed dental bridge?
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What is a key advantage of cement-retained implants compared to screw-retained implants?
What is a key advantage of cement-retained implants compared to screw-retained implants?
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What is a primary purpose of splinting abutment teeth in prosthodontics?
What is a primary purpose of splinting abutment teeth in prosthodontics?
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Study Notes
General Considerations for Prosthodontics
- Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the design, manufacture, and fitting of artificial replacements for teeth and other parts of the mouth.
- Abutment: The tooth to which a bridge attaches.
- Retainer: The crown that attaches to the abutment.
- Pontic: The artificial tooth in the center of the bridge.
- Connector: The part of the bridge that connects the retainer to the pontic.
- Avoid using bridges in situations where there is half or less bone support.
- A single retainer cantilever, a bridge supported by only one tooth on one side, is a poor design, especially in the posterior region.
- Multiple abutment teeth splinted together can have a poor prognosis.
- Non-rigid connectors are best used in specific situations, especially for intermediate abutments or pier abutments.
- Intermediate abutment or pier abutment: An abutment tooth that is being used to support a bridge all by itself, without other natural teeth in proximal contact with it.
- Endodontically treated teeth: Should not be used as abutments because the removed dentin makes them weaker.
- Compromised periodontal teeth: Should not be used as abutments.
- Crown to root ratio: An ideal ratio of 1:2 (crown:root) is the most supportive, while a 2:3 ratio is more realistic, and a 1:1 ratio is the minimum. A 2:1 ratio is poor and should not be used.
- Ante’s Law: The PDL surface area of the abutment teeth should be equal to or greater than the imaginary PDL surface area of the missing teeth.
- Splinting: Distributes occlusal forces among all teeth by connecting them together.
- Ideal root shape for an abutment: Divergent, multiple, curved, broad roots.
Removable Partial Dentures (RPGs)
- RPGs are indicated in situations where a bridge is not viable such as distal extension, long spans of missing teeth, or bone loss around potential abutments.
- Combination syndrome: Can occur in the upper arch when only the mandibular anterior teeth are present, causing severe damage to the opposing premaxilla.
- Overdentures: Dentures that seat and click into implants. (2 lower implants and 4 upper implants is a classic arrangement).
Implants
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Cement-retained implants: Economical, allow minor angle correction, easier to use in small teeth, require more chair time, and have the same propensity to loosen as a screw-retained implant.
- Excess cement can cause peri-implantitis: Inflammation and bone loss around the implant.
- Screw-retained implants: Retrievable, easy to clean, but the screw can loosen during function.
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Description
Explore the essentials of prosthodontics, the branch of dentistry focused on designing and fitting artificial tooth replacements. This quiz covers key terms like abutment, retainer, pontic, and connector, and offers insights into design considerations and prognosis. Test your understanding of the principles and practices crucial for effective dental prosthetics.
