Insurance Glossary

S

Dental specialists are licensed dentists who have additional training and expertise in a specific area of dentistry. Based on a specific dental issue, a general dentist may refer a member to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment. Examples of dental specialists include:
  • Endodontists specializing in care for the inner portion of the tooth.
  • Oral surgeons specializing in tooth removal and repair of the jaw and mouth bones.
  • Orthodontists who correct misaligned teeth and jaws.
  • Pediatric dentists who specialize in the dental treatment of infants and children.
  • Periodontists who treat diseases of the gums.
  • Prosthodontists who specialize in replacing missing teeth with artificial structures.
A summary plan description is a detailed overview of benefits coverage, limitations, exclusions, dental insurance plan maximums, and other provisions of a dental insurance plan. Dental insurance plan sponsors or administrators are required by law to distribute this document to dental insurance plan members. A summary plan description is also referred to as a plan summary.
l