How is the term "edentulous" best defined?

The term "edentulous" is best defined as "without teeth." This medical terminology is often used in dental and healthcare contexts to describe individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth, whether due to age, disease, or injury. It highlights a complete lack of natural dentition, distinguishing it from conditions where some teeth remain.

Understanding this term is particularly important in the fields of dentistry and geriatric care, where managing the needs of edentulous patients often involves considerations for dentures or other dental prosthetics. Recognizing that "edentulous" specifically refers to a lack of natural teeth provides a clear foundation for discussing the related treatments and care plans tailored for these patients.