Which pontic design is used for thin ridges?

Which pontic design is used for thin ridges?

• A. Conical
• B. Ovate
• C. Sanitary
• D. Modified ridge lap

Answer: (A)

When ridges are thin, the goal is to minimize pressure and contact on the delicate tissue while still providing a functional prosthesis. A conical pontic has a narrow, tapered shape that creates the smallest contact area with the ridge and mucosa, reducing load and tissue displacement. This makes seating easier and preserves the thin ridge without adding bulk or causing irritation, which is why it’s favored for slender ridges. Other designs require more soft-tissue support or broader contact: ovate needs enough tissue to form a natural emergence profile, sanitary pontic avoids tissue contact but isn’t ideal for shaping a functional ridge, and modified ridge lap involves more ridge contact and esthetic considerations that aren’t suitable when the ridge is very thin.

When ridges are thin, the goal is to minimize pressure and contact on the delicate tissue while still providing a functional prosthesis. A conical pontic has a narrow, tapered shape that creates the smallest contact area with the ridge and mucosa, reducing load and tissue displacement. This makes seating easier and preserves the thin ridge without adding bulk or causing irritation, which is why it’s favored for slender ridges. Other designs require more soft-tissue support or broader contact: ovate needs enough tissue to form a natural emergence profile, sanitary pontic avoids tissue contact but isn’t ideal for shaping a functional ridge, and modified ridge lap involves more ridge contact and esthetic considerations that aren’t suitable when the ridge is very thin.