When a bridge is made, the artificial tooth portion that corresponds to the extracted tooth space is called the “Body” (Pontic). The shape of the space under this body is critical for gum health. In a saddle design, the artificial tooth completely surrounds the gum on both sides (both lateral and lingual); aesthetically, it looks perfect as if the tooth is actually emerging from the gum, but it is impossible to clean underneath with dental floss or interdental brushes, quickly leading to a terrible odor and gingivitis. In a sanitary design, the bridge body does not touch the gum at all, leaving a completely open tunnel of 2-3 mm; food passes easily underneath and is cleaned with water, but aesthetics are nonexistent. In periodontal selection, “Ovate Pontic” designs that do not put pressure on the gum are preferred in aesthetic areas of the anterior region, while hygienic body designs are chosen for the invisible lower back molars solely to protect health.
