There are several dental terms you need to be familiar with when working in a dental office. Dental Coding and Billing is one of the most demanding professions in terms of knowledge and skills required. If you are not familiar with commonly used terms and language in a dental office you may find yourself lost and confused. Below is a list of dental specialties that are officially recognized by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation:
• Endodontics – this specialty is concerned with the etiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease and injuries of the pulp and associated periradicular conditions. (These dentists specialize in Root Canal Therapy)
• Oral Pathology – this specialty focuses on the nature of the diseases affecting the oral structures and adjacent regions. (These dentists focus on recognition, diagnosis, investigation and management of diseases of the oral cavity and jaw)
• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon – this specialty is concerned with the diagnosis, surgical and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries, deformities, defects and esthetic aspects of the mouth, face and neck. (These dentists usually remove impacted wisdom teeth and correct facial deformities such as cleft palate)
• Orthodontics- this specialty focuses on the interception and treatment of malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) of the teeth and their surrounding structures. (This dentist places and removes braces)
• Pediatric Dentistry – this specialty focuses on the preventative and therapeutic oral healthcare of children from birth through adolescence. They may also care for special patients beyond adolescence who demonstrate mental and or physical ailments. (This dentist is also known as a pedodontist)
• Periodontics – this specialty focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of the supporting and surrounding gum tissue of the teeth.
• Prosthodontics – this specialty focuses on restoration and maintenance of oral functions by restoring natural teeth or replacing missing teeth. (This dentist is known for crowns, bridges and dentures)
To learn more about Dental Billing and Coding visit the American Dental Coders Association
