dentures
Dentures (noun) means a removable set of artificial teeth, fitted to a plate that rests on the gums, worn to replace teeth that have been lost. Example: “He was fitted with dentures after the last of his lower teeth were extracted.”
How to use dentures
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFalse teeth you can take out.
Neutral and standard; false teeth is the everyday equivalent.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He was fitted with _____ after the last of his lower teeth were extracted.
Etymology
From French denture 'set of teeth', ultimately from Latin dens, dentis 'tooth'.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for dentures
See all rhymes for dentures →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between dentures and implants?
Dentures sit on the gums and come out for cleaning. Implants are titanium posts fixed into the jawbone with crowns attached, so they stay in permanently. Implants cost far more and need enough healthy bone; dentures are quicker, cheaper and suit almost anyone.
What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
A full denture replaces every tooth in an upper or lower jaw and is held by suction or adhesive. A partial denture fills in gaps where some natural teeth remain, and usually clips onto them with small clasps.
Is denture used in the singular?
Yes, in dentistry: a single upper denture, a lower denture. In everyday speech people almost always say dentures.
What is the meaning of dentures?
"dentures" (noun) means a removable set of artificial teeth, fitted to a plate that rests on the gums, worn to replace teeth that have been lost.