Which dental procedure is typically considered a prosthodontic treatment?

• A. Filling
• B. Root canal
• C. Bridgework
• D. Teeth cleaning

Answer: (C)

Prosthodontics focuses on replacing missing teeth and their supporting structures with artificial devices. A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that fills the gap left by a missing tooth by anchoring to the adjacent teeth and spanning the space with a pontic. This use of a artificial structure to restore function and esthetics is the essence of prosthodontic treatment.

Filling, in contrast, is a direct restoration used to repair decay within a single tooth and falls under operative/restorative dentistry. Root canal therapy addresses infection inside the tooth and is classified as endodontics. Teeth cleaning is preventive care that removes plaque and tartar. So the procedure that fits the prosthodontic category is bridgework.