Which term describes an artificial tooth that replaces a missing natural tooth?

The term that accurately describes an artificial tooth that replaces a missing natural tooth is "pontic." A pontic is specifically designed to serve as the false tooth in a dental prosthesis, particularly in a dental bridge. In this context, the pontic fills the space left by a missing tooth, effectively restoring function and aesthetics for the patient.

To further understand why "pontic" is the correct choice, consider the other terms: an implant refers to a dental device surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth but does not replace the tooth itself as it is not the visible part. A bridge involves multiple components, including pontics and crowns, to span the gap of the missing tooth but is not the name given specifically to the artificial tooth. A crown covers a damaged tooth or a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, but it does not serve as a direct replacement for a missing tooth.

Thus, the term "pontic" specifically points to that single artificial tooth in the context of replacing a natural tooth.