All teeth are missing in either the upper or lower arch is described as what?

All teeth are missing in either the upper or lower arch is described as what?

• A. Edentulous
• B. Abutment
• C. Implant
• D. Curettage

Answer: (A)

The concept shown is edentulism. When all teeth are missing in one arch (upper or lower), that arch is described as edentulous. The term “edentulous” specifically means lacking natural teeth. If an entire patient has no teeth in both arches, they’re completely edentulous. Abutment refers to a tooth or implant that supports a prosthesis, an implant is a root-form device used to anchor a prosthesis, and curettage is a surgical cleaning procedure for removing tissue from a tooth socket or pocket—none describe the absence of teeth.

The concept shown is edentulism. When all teeth are missing in one arch (upper or lower), that arch is described as edentulous. The term “edentulous” specifically means lacking natural teeth. If an entire patient has no teeth in both arches, they’re completely edentulous. Abutment refers to a tooth or implant that supports a prosthesis, an implant is a root-form device used to anchor a prosthesis, and curettage is a surgical cleaning procedure for removing tissue from a tooth socket or pocket—none describe the absence of teeth.