Types of bridge

The appliances used to replace missing teeth were defined in Chapter 7. Some of the terms used in bridgework are also used in relation to partial dentures. • An abutment is a tooth to which a bridge (or

partial denture) is attached. • A retainer is a crown or other restoration that

is cemented to the abutment. The terms ‘retainer’ and ‘abutment’ should not be confused or used interchangeably.