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Major Restorative

Major restorative coverage includes complex dental procedures designed to restore the function and appearance of teeth. Examples include crowns, bridges, onlays, dentures, and sometimes implants. These treatments are more extensive and expensive than basic restorative services such as fillings.

Dental plans usually reimburse a lower percentage for major restorative work, often 50 percent, and apply longer waiting periods to control costs. Some plans have distinct annual or lifetime limits for this category.

Example:

If a crown costs $1,200 and your plan covers 50 percent under major restorative, you receive $600 and pay $600.

What to Watch For:

Confirm the waiting period and whether pre-determination is required before major dental work begins. Pre-approval helps avoid unexpected costs.

Related Terms

Preventive / Basic Services

Preventive and basic services cover routine and common dental procedures that maintain and restore oral health. Preventive services include cleanings, X-rays, and exams, while basic services include fillings, extractions, and simple restorative work.

Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is a type of health coverage that helps pay for the cost of preventive, basic, and major dental services. It is designed to make oral care more affordable and to encourage regular checkups that prevent costly procedures later on. Dental insurance is offered through group employee benefits, individual plans, or conversion plans for people leaving workplace coverage.

Coverage / Benefit

Coverage, sometimes referred to as a benefit, is the range of health or dental services, supplies, or treatments that your insurance plan agrees to pay for under its terms and conditions. Each benefit represents a category of care, such as prescription drugs, dental services, vision care, or paramedical treatments.

Periodontics

Periodontics is the area of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and supporting bone structures around the teeth. Treatments may include deep cleaning (scaling and root planning), gum grafts, and maintenance therapy.

Preventive (Dental Subcategory)

Preventive dental care focuses on maintaining oral health through regular cleanings, examinations, and minor treatments. It helps detect issues early, reducing the need for major dental work later. Services in this category include exams, X-rays, scaling, polishing, fluoride treatments, and sealants for children.

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