When you lose a tooth, a dental bridge fills the gap with a false tooth called a pontic. The pontic sits in the space where your natural tooth used to be.

A pontic is not implanted into your jawbone like a dental implant. Instead, it rests on your gum tissue beneath it. The bridge holds the pontic in place by anchoring it to the teeth on either side of your gap.

Your dentist prepares those neighbouring teeth, puts crowns on them, and the pontic suspends between them. That means the pontic doesn't touch the gum the way a natural tooth root would.

Natural teeth have roots that stimulate your jawbone when you chew. This stimulation keeps the bone healthy and strong. A pontic doesn't have a root, so the bone beneath it can gradually shrink over time.

The pontic also rests directly on your gum. This can create a pocket where food debris and bacteria collect. Cleaning under a pontic requires special tools — a standard toothbrush won't reach.

Many patients find that their gum beneath a pontic changes colour or texture. The tissue can appear paler because there's no direct blood supply from a tooth root.

You might notice a slight gap forming between the pontic and your gum as the bone slowly resorbs. This isn't always visible, but you may feel it when you floss.

Use a floss threader or water flosser every day to clean under your pontic. A soft interdental brush can also help remove debris from the space.

Visit your dentist regularly so they can check the health of the gum beneath your pontic. Early detection of any problems gives you the best chance of keeping your bridge comfortable for years.

Dental bridges have been used successfully for decades. They're a reliable way to replace a missing tooth and restore your smile. Understanding how a pontic works helps you look after it properly.

Your dentist can explain exactly how your bridge will work in your mouth. They'll tailor everything to fit your situation.

If you have questions about bridges or pontics, get in touch.