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Denture Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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denture

[ˈdɛn.tʃər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

dentistry, appliances

A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be complete or partial, depending on the number of teeth being replaced. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures can improve chewing ability, speech, and aesthetics, providing support for facial structures.

Synonyms

artificial teeth, dental prosthesis, false teeth.

Examples of usage

  • She got new dentures after losing her last few teeth.
  • Dentures can take some time to get used to.
  • He cleans his dentures every night before bed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, losing teeth is associated with aging, but dentures have allowed many to maintain a youthful appearance.
  • Denture use is often depicted in media as a humorous element, reflecting the societal views on aging and tooth loss.

Science

  • Modern dentures are typically made from acrylic resin or porcelain, designed for comfort and a natural look.
  • Implant-supported dentures provide more stability than traditional ones, showcasing advancements in dental technology.

Psychology

  • Wearing dentures can improve self-esteem and social interactions for those concerned about their appearance after losing natural teeth.
  • Research shows that the ability to chew properly with dentures can impact nutrition and overall health.

History

  • George Washington famously wore dentures, but they were made from a variety of materials, none of which were ivory or human teeth as many assume.
  • By the 19th century, mass production of dentures began, making them more accessible to the general population.

Origin of 'denture'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'denture' comes from the French word 'dent', which means 'tooth'.
  • Originally developed in the 16th century, dentures were made from materials like wood, ivory, or even animal teeth.

The word 'denture' derives from the French term 'dent' meaning 'tooth', which traces back to the Latin 'dentalis', meaning 'of the teeth'. The term began to be used in English around the early 19th century when dental technology advanced, allowing for more sophisticated prosthetic devices. Originally, dentures were made from ivory, human teeth, or animal teeth, but advancements in materials later led to the use of acrylic and other synthetic substances. The art and science of denture fabrication have evolved significantly, reflecting the changes in dentistry and materials science over time. Despite the variations in design and materials, the fundamental purpose of dentures remains to restore functionality and appearance for those with missing teeth.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,667, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.