Basic
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Edentulous
Pronunciation: ee-DEN-choo-lus
Describing a jaw, arch, or patient that is entirely without natural teeth.
Full Definition
The adjective 'edentulous' denotes the complete absence of natural teeth in a dental arch or in the mouth as a whole. It is distinguished from 'partially edentulous,' which refers to the loss of some but not all teeth. The term is encountered extensively in prosthodontic treatment plans, denture fabrication records, and medico-legal reports. Editors should note the correct spelling — one 'd', not 'edentulous' vs 'edentulous' — and should not confuse it with 'endentulous,' which is a common misspelling with no clinical standing.
Usage
Usage note: 'Endentulous' is a widespread misspelling; editors should silently correct it to 'edentulous'.
In Context
- "The patient presented as fully edentulous in both arches and requested implant-retained overdentures." — Prosthodontic consultation note
- "Radiographic examination of the edentulous ridge revealed adequate bone height for implant placement." — Implant planning report
Also known as
toothless
fully edentulous
Contrasted with
dentate
partially dentate
Don't confuse with
endentulous (misspelling)
partially edentulous