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.
- MalarPertaining to the cheek bone; see zygomatic bone.
- MalignantHaving the properties of dysplasia, invasion, and metastasis.
- Malocclusion Improper alignment of biting or chewing surfaces of upper and lower teeth
- Managed CareAny contractual arrangement where payment or reimbursement and/or utilization are controlled by a third party. The term "managed care" refers to a cost containment system that directs the utilization of health benefits by: a.) restricting the type, level and frequency of treatment; b.)(...)
- MandibleThe lower jaw
- Mandibular CanalThe passage which transmits vessels and nerves through the jaw to branches that distributes them to the teeth.
- Maryland BridgeFixed partial denture featuring conservative retainers which are resin bonded to abutments.
- MaxillaThe upper jaw
- Maximum Plan BenefitThe reimbursement level determined by the administrator of a dental benefit plan for a specific dental procedure. This may vary widely by geographic region or by benefit plans within a region.
- MedicaidA federal assistance program established as Title XIX under the Social Security Act of 1965 which provides payment for medical care for certain low income individuals and families. The program is funded jointly by the state and federal governments and administered by states.
- Medically Necessary CareThe reasonable and appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care (including supplies, appliances and devices) as determined and prescribed by qualified, appropriate health care providers in treating any condition, illness, disease, injury, or birth developmental malformations. Care is(...)
- MedicamentSubstance or combination of substances intended to be pharmacologically active, specially prepared to be prescribed, dispensed or administered by authorized personnel to prevent or treat diseases in humans or animals.
- Medicament, TopicalPharmacological substance especially prepared to be applied on tissues of the oral cavity.
- MedicareA federal insurance program enacted in 1965 as Title XVIII of the Social Security Act that provides certain inpatient hospital services and physician services for all persons age 65 and older and eligible disabled individuals. The program is administered by the Centers for Medicare and(...)
- MemberAn individual enrolled in a dental benefit program. See beneficiary.
- MesialNearer the middle line of the body or the surface of a tooth nearer the center of the dental arch.
- Metals, Classification Of(source: ADA Council on Scientific Affairs).The noble metal classification system has been adopted as a more precise method of reporting various alloys used in dentistry. The alloys are defined on the basis of the percentage of metal content and listed in order of biocompatibility.
- MicroabrasianMechanical removal of a small amount of tooth structure to eliminate superficial enamel discoloration defects.
- MicroorganismsA minute living organism, such as a bacterium, fungus, yeast, virus or rickettsia.
- Minimal Sedationa minimally depressed level of consciousness, produced by a pharmacological method, that retains the patient's ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond normally to tactile stimulation and verbal command. Although cognitive function and coordination may be(...)