Which pontic design has the WORST hygiene (hardest to clean)?

Correct answer: C. Saddle (full ridge lap) pontic

• A. Incorrect. The ovate pontic sits in a prepared concavity in the ridge — it is easy to clean with floss, has good esthetics, and acceptable hygiene.
• B. Incorrect. The modified ridge lap only contacts the buccal portion of the ridge and is a compromise between esthetics and hygiene — reasonable hygiene access.
• C. Correct. The SADDLE/FULL RIDGE LAP pontic fully contacts the entire ridge (buccal and lingual), mimicking a natural tooth but trapping plaque and food debris underneath. It has the WORST hygiene because it is nearly impossible to clean properly with floss. It is generally contraindicated for this reason.
• D. Incorrect. The sanitary (hygienic) pontic does NOT contact the ridge at all — it has the BEST hygiene of all designs because it is completely free of the ridge.