A Patient has a habit of bruxism, which of the following type of pontic should be given in such a patient:
**Core Concept**
In patients with bruxism, a type of pontic is recommended that minimizes the risk of tooth wear and facilitates easy cleaning around the pontic area. Bruxism is characterized by habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, often leading to excessive wear and potentially damaging dental restorations.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A pontic that is designed to minimize contact with opposing teeth, thereby reducing the risk of wear, is ideal for patients with bruxism. A **hygienic pontic** is preferred in such cases as it allows for easy cleaning and minimizes the risk of food accumulation, which can exacerbate bruxism-related issues.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** A **screw retained pontic** may not be the best choice for bruxism patients as it can still cause wear on opposing teeth and may not be easy to clean around.
**Option B:** A **fixed partial denture** may not be suitable for bruxism patients as it can be difficult to clean and may cause additional wear on opposing teeth.
**Option C:** A **Maryland bonded bridge** may not be the best choice for bruxism patients as it can be prone to failure due to excessive wear and may not be easy to clean around.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with bruxism, a hygienic pontic can help reduce the risk of tooth wear and facilitate easy cleaning, making it an ideal choice for this population.
**Correct Answer:** C. A hygienic pontic is the best choice for a patient with bruxism.