Denture
A removable prosthetic appliance replacing some or all of a patient's natural teeth and surrounding tissue.
Full Definition
A denture is a removable dental prosthesis designed to replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. Complete dentures replace all teeth in an arch, while partial dentures fill gaps where some natural teeth remain. In clinical documents, editors must distinguish between 'complete denture', 'partial denture', and 'immediate denture', as each has distinct clinical and billing implications. The term is never abbreviated to 'dent.' in formal records. Dentures are fabricated by dental technicians from impressions taken by the clinician.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid the colloquial term 'false teeth' in clinical documentation. Use 'complete denture' or 'partial denture' with specificity.
In Context
- "The patient was referred for construction of a complete upper denture following full maxillary clearance." — Referral letter
- "Review appointment booked to assess fit of lower partial denture." — Clinical notes