Dental Glossary Terms

The maximum amount a dental plan will pay toward covered dental services during a benefit year.

Common dental services such as fillings, simple extractions and other minor restorative treatments.

Dental X-rays used to detect cavities between teeth and monitor bone levels.

A fixed dental appliance used to replace one or more missing teeth by attaching to nearby teeth or implants.

The percentage of the cost you pay for a covered dental service after any deductible has been met.

A covering placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength and function.

The amount you pay out-of-pocket for covered dental services before the plan begins paying benefits.

Services used to evaluate oral health, such as exams and X-rays.

Dental treatment involving the inside of the tooth, most commonly root canal therapy.

A restoration used to repair a tooth damaged by decay or minor fracture.

A preventive treatment that helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.

A dentist who has contracted with the dental plan to provide services at agreed-upon rates.

More complex dental services such as crowns, bridges, dentures and certain oral surgery procedures.

Dental treatment used to correct teeth and jaw alignment, commonly including braces or clear aligners.

A dentist who does not have a contract with the dental plan. Services may cost more when using an out-of-network provider.

Dental care focused on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, including treatment for gum disease.

Services intended to help prevent dental problems, such as cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments and sealants.

Dental services that replace missing teeth, such as dentures, bridges and implants.

A procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth by removing the affected pulp and sealing the tooth.

A thin protective coating applied to chewing surfaces of back teeth to help prevent cavities.