入れ歯
irebaA removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and surrounding tissues.
入れ歯を作るには型を取る必要があります。
To make dentures, you need to take an impression.
入れ歯 can refer to either partial dentures (部分入れ歯) or full dentures (総入れ歯).
💡Pro Tip
Cultural Note: Dentures in Japan
In Japan, high-quality dentures are often covered by national health insurance, making them more accessible. Many elderly Japanese wear dentures as a standard part of dental care.
⚡Gold Rule
Polite vs. Direct Terms
While 入れ歯 is neutral, 義歯 (gishi) is a more formal/medical term. Avoid using 入れ歯 in very formal settings unless discussing it directly with a dentist.
📖Word Origin
The word 入れ歯 combines 入れ (ire, 'to put in') and 歯 (ha, 'tooth'), literally meaning 'tooth inserted'. The term reflects the removable nature of the appliance.
📝Usage Notes
入れ歯 is the most common term for dentures in everyday Japanese. It is used regardless of whether the dentures are partial or full. In medical contexts, 義歯 (gishi) is also used but is less common in casual speech.