HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a complete denture designed to replace?

1. The entire dentition of an upper or lower arch

2. A single tooth

3. Only the front teeth

4. A partial denture

The correct answer is: The entire dentition of an upper or lower arch

A complete denture is specifically designed to replace all of the natural teeth in either the upper or lower arch. It serves individuals who have lost all their teeth in one or both arches due to reasons such as decay, periodontal disease, or trauma. A complete denture provides support for the lips and cheeks, restores functionality in eating and speaking, and enhances aesthetics by improving the facial profile. In contrast, the other options represent different dental solutions: a single tooth is replaced by a dental implant or crown, only the front teeth might be addressed with a cosmetic option, and a partial denture is used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. These alternatives do not serve the same comprehensive function as a complete denture, which is always meant for complete tooth loss in an entire arch.