01
das Gebiss
teeth
The complete set of teeth of a human or animal in the jaw.
example
Ein gesundes Gebiss erfordert regelmäßige Pflege und Zahnarztbesuche.
Healthy teeth require regular care and visits to the dentist.
das Gebiss
teeth / dentures / bit
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The word 'Gebiss' is related to the verb 'beißen' (to bite). The prefix 'Ge-' forms a collective noun here, as it often does in German. So das Gebiss is the complete set of teeth with which one bites.
EXAMPLE
Der Hund hat ein sehr kräftiges Gebiss.
The dog has very strong teeth.
Context clue
The context reveals which meaning is intended: In connection with 'Zahnarzt' (dentist) or 'Pflege' (care), it refers to natural teeth. With 'Großeltern' (grandparents) or 'reinigen' (to clean), artificial teeth are often meant. The word 'Pferd' (horse) or 'Reiten' (riding) points to the part of the bridle.
EXAMPLE
Der Zahnarzt kontrollierte das Gebiss des Jungen.
The dentist checked the boy's teeth.
Typical collocations
When referring to a dental prosthesis, 'Gebiss' (dentures) is often used with verbs such as 'tragen' (to wear), 'einsetzen' (to put in), 'herausnehmen' (to take out), or 'reinigen' (to clean). People also speak of a 'künstliches Gebiss' (artificial set of teeth).
EXAMPLE
Mein Opa trägt seit letztem Jahr ein Gebiss.
My grandpa has worn dentures since last year.
Compare with
Gebiss vs Brücke
bridge
'die Brücke' and 'das Gebiss' can both appear in the context of teeth, but they do not mean the same thing. A 'Brücke' is a fixed dental bridge for a gap between teeth. It is attached to neighboring teeth. 'Gebiss' can mean the complete set of teeth of a person or animal. It can also mean removable dentures. The words can therefore be confused because both come up at the dentist. If only one gap is being closed permanently, 'Brücke' fits. If it is about all the teeth or a larger prosthesis, 'Gebiss' fits.
Gebiss
Die Zahnärztin kontrolliert das Gebiss des Kindes sehr genau.
The dentist checks the child's teeth very carefully.
Brücke
Nach dem Unfall bekam Tom eine Brücke für den fehlenden Zahn.
After the accident, Tom got a dental bridge for the missing tooth.
In real life
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