I. ˈdent ə l adjective
Etymology: Latin dentalis, from dent-, dens tooth + -alis -al
1. : of or relating to the teeth or dentistry
dental formula
dental student
: used for the care of the teeth or in dentistry
dental paste
dental file
2. of a speech sound
a. : articulated with the tip or blade of the tongue against or near the upper front teeth
English th and th and French t and d are dental sounds
b. : articulated either thus or alveolarly
English t and d and s and z are dental sounds
— compare interdental , labiodental
II. noun
( -s )
1. : dentil
2. : a dental consonant
3. : tooth — not often in formal use
4. : a part (as a nerve or artery) supplying the teeth or the adjoining parts of the head