Which term refers to a fixed or removable appliance to replace missing teeth?

Which term refers to a fixed or removable appliance to replace missing teeth?

• A. Prosthetics
• B. Sealant
• C. Inlay
• D. Bridge

Answer: (A)

In dentistry, devices that replace missing teeth, whether fixed or removable, fall under dental prosthetics. This term describes the appliances themselves as a group—things like crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported prostheses—designed to restore function and aesthetics when teeth are absent. The choice described is best because it captures the broad category that includes both fixed and removable replacements, not just a specific type. A sealant is used to protect chewing surfaces, not to replace teeth; an inlay is a type of internal tooth restoration; and a bridge is a specific fixed appliance, whereas prosthetics refers to the whole range of replacement devices.

In dentistry, devices that replace missing teeth, whether fixed or removable, fall under dental prosthetics. This term describes the appliances themselves as a group—things like crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported prostheses—designed to restore function and aesthetics when teeth are absent. The choice described is best because it captures the broad category that includes both fixed and removable replacements, not just a specific type. A sealant is used to protect chewing surfaces, not to replace teeth; an inlay is a type of internal tooth restoration; and a bridge is a specific fixed appliance, whereas prosthetics refers to the whole range of replacement devices.