Benefits Dictionary G–L

Dental benefits dictionary

More Definitions:

A–F (Abscess–Fluoride)

M–R (Malocclusion–Root Canal Therapy)

S–Z (Scaling–Waiting Period)

 

Gingivitis: redness and swelling of the gums surrounding the teeth. It is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, usually caused by a buildup of plaque.

Group: the company or organization that contracts with Delta Dental to administer its dental benefit plan. The group determines plan type, benefit levels, maximums, and member eligibility.

Group Member: see Subscriber.

Gum Disease: see Periodontal Disease.

Halitosis: bad breath.

HIPAA: the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. This federal law is intended to improve access to health insurance, limit fraud and abuse, and control administrative costs.

Impacted Tooth: an un-erupted or partially erupted tooth that is blocked from fully erupting by another tooth, bone, or soft tissue.

Implant: a device inserted into the jawbone to prove the anchor for replacing missing tooth/teeth.

Inlay: a custom-made filling that is permanently placed in a prepared tooth. Gold and porcelain are commonly used materials for inlays.

Insured: see Enrollee.

Limitations: conditions, such as age and period of time covered, that restrict a dental program's coverage for certain services. (For example, in most programs, a prophylaxis is a covered benefit twice in a 12-month period.)