入れ歯

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 入れ歯 is read as いれば and is a noun for removable dentures that replace missing teeth.
• Basic usage: Use 入れ歯を洗う for cleaning them and 予備の入れ歯が入っている for a spare set stored in a case.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Japanese singular form and English plural
  • One Japanese noun can refer to one dental appliance, while English normally uses the plural dentures or the phrase a set of dentures.
• Case and location
  • 箱の中に marks where the spare dentures are stored and does not describe a part of the dentures.