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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.

Dental plans classify periodontics as either basic or major restorative depending on the insurer. Reimbursement rates typically range from 50 to 80 percent, and waiting periods may apply for more extensive procedures.

Example:

If your plan covers 80 percent for basic dental and your periodontal cleaning costs $250, the insurer pays $200 and you pay $50.

What to Watch For:

Confirm how your plan classifies periodontics, since major restorative procedures may have lower reimbursement rates and waiting periods.

Related Terms

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.

Per Incident

Per incident refers to the way certain insurance benefits are calculated or limited based on each separate event, illness, or accident rather than by year or lifetime. When a benefit is paid “per incident,” it means you are eligible for reimbursement each time a new, distinct occurrence happens, up to the maximum amount specified for that type of claim.

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.

Spouse / Partner

A spouse or partner is the person legally married to or living in a committed relationship with the insured plan member or policyholder. In insurance terms, a spouse includes both legally married and common-law partners who meet the eligibility requirements defined by the insurer. Common-law partners are generally recognized after living together continuously for a specific period, often 12 months or longer, in a relationship similar to marriage.

Dentist

A dentist is a licensed healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and mouth. Dentists play a key role in maintaining oral health through preventive care, restorative treatments, and patient education. Common services include cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and oral examinations.

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