What is a denture?

A denture is accurately defined as an artificial tooth or a set of artificial teeth designed to replace missing teeth. Dentures can be complete, meaning they replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or they can be partial, replacing only a few missing teeth while utilizing remaining natural teeth for support. The primary function of dentures is to restore aesthetics and improve functionality, allowing individuals to chew and speak more effectively.

The other options do not accurately represent what a denture is. Surgical implants involve the insertion of metal posts into the jawbone to serve as a foundation for artificial teeth, which differs from dentures that are removable. Natural tooth replacement therapies typically refer to more permanent solutions like implants or bridges, rather than a removable set of teeth. Lastly, while cosmetic procedures may be involved in enhancing the smile, dentures themselves are primarily functional dental appliances rather than purely cosmetic enhancements.