Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
Where should a pier (non-rigid connector) be placed on a fixed bridge where the mesial abutment is single-rooted and the distal abutment is multi-rooted?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Between the abutments (at the pier/intermediate abutment)
A) Between the abutments — CORRECT.
In a pier (intermediate) abutment bridge, the non-rigid connector (NRC) is placed on the DISTAL aspect of the pier abutment (between the pier and the distal retainer). This allows each segment to flex independently under occlusal load, preventing the pier from acting as a fulcrum and de-cementing the weaker abutment. Placement is typically on the distal of the pier, toward the more stable multi-rooted abutment.
B/C) Placing the NRC at the terminal abutments defeats the purpose — the pier is the problem area.
D) NRCs at both connectors create too much independent movement and lack of rigidity.
In a pier (intermediate) abutment bridge, the non-rigid connector (NRC) is placed on the DISTAL aspect of the pier abutment (between the pier and the distal retainer). This allows each segment to flex independently under occlusal load, preventing the pier from acting as a fulcrum and de-cementing the weaker abutment. Placement is typically on the distal of the pier, toward the more stable multi-rooted abutment.
B/C) Placing the NRC at the terminal abutments defeats the purpose — the pier is the problem area.
D) NRCs at both connectors create too much independent movement and lack of rigidity.
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