Glossary
Our glossary features any dental term you need to know, from A to Z. Still confused about something? Give us a call — we’re happy to help.
- Bonding Process by which two or more components are made integral by mechanical and/or chemical adhesion at their interface
- Bridge See fixed partial denture.
- Bruccal Pertaining to or toward the cheek (as in the buccal surface of a posterior tooth).
- BruxismThe parafunctional grinding of the teeth.
- Bundling Of ProceduresThe systematic combining of distinct dental procedure codes by third-party payers that results in a reduced benefit for the patient/beneficiary.
- By ReportA written description of the service provided that is prepared when the term "by report" is included in a procedure code nomenclature; may be requested by a third-party payer to provide additional information for claims processing.
- Cafeteria PlanEmployee benefit plan in which employees select their medical insurance coverage and other nontaxable fringe benefits from a list of options provided by the employer. Cafeteria plan participants may receive additional, taxable cash compensation if they select less expensive benefits.
- CalculusHard deposit of mineralized substance adhering to crowns and/or roots of teeth or prosthetic devices.
- Canal A relatively narrow tubular passage or channel.
- Cantilever ExtensionPart of a fixed prosthesis that extends beyond the abutment to which it is attached and has no additional support.
- CapitationA capitation program is one in which a dentist or dentists contract with the programs' sponsor or administrator to provide all or most of the dental services covered under the program to subscribers in return for payment on a per-capita basis.
- CariesCommonly used term for tooth decay.
- Carious LesionA cavity caused by caries.
- Case ManagementThe monitoring and coordination of treatment rendered to patients with specific diagnoses or requiring high cost or extensive services. May include complex treatment plans or discussion between multiple practitioners. A process of identifying patients with special health care needs, developing(...)
- CavityMissing tooth structure. A cavity may be due to decay, erosion or abrasion. If caused by caries; also referred to as carious lesion.
- Cement BaseMaterial used under a filling to replace lost tooth structure.
- Cementum Hard connective tissue covering the outer surface of a tooth root.
- Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services (CMS)The federal agency responsible for administering the Medicare, Medicaid, State . Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), HIPAA, and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) programs. CMS is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Cephalometric ImageA standardized, extraoral projection utilized in the scientific study of the measurements of the head.
- ClaimA request for payment under a dental benefit plan; a statement listing services rendered, the dates of services, and itemization of costs. The completed request serves as the basis for payment of benefits.