This Spanish-English dental glossary explains 168 words you will hear at the dentist and on your insurance paperwork, in plain language: from cavity, crown and root canal to deductible, copay, EOB and Medicare Advantage. Each term includes its Spanish name so bilingual families can talk about care in the same words.
Terms are grouped by topic. Each English headword is followed by the Spanish term in parentheses, and by other names Spanish-speaking patients in Miami often use. That makes it easy to help a parent or grandparent read an estimate, a form or an insurance letter.
Knowing what each part is called helps you follow what the dentist writes in your chart. Definitions based on ADA MouthHealthy: Tooth and the ADA clinical glossary.
Tooth (Diente): Each hard structure in your mouth that you use to bite and chew. It has a visible part (the crown) and one or more roots inside the bone. Patients may also say: pieza dental.
Molar / back tooth (Muela): A wide tooth at the back of the mouth that grinds food. In everyday Spanish, many people call any back tooth a muela. Patients may also say: muela de atrás.
Permanent teeth (Dientes permanentes): The adult teeth that replace baby teeth. There are usually 32, and by about age 21 all of them have typically come in. Patients may also say: dientes de adulto, dientes definitivos.
Crown of the tooth (Corona del diente): The part of the tooth you can see, normally covered by enamel. Not to be confused with a dental crown, a cap the dentist places over a tooth. Patients may also say: parte visible del diente.
Root (Raíz): The part of the tooth hidden inside the jawbone that holds it in place. You normally can't see it because the gum and bone cover it. Patients may also say: raíz del diente.
Enamel (Esmalte): The hard outer layer that covers and protects the crown of the tooth. When enamel is lost, the tooth can become sensitive. Patients may also say: esmalte dental.
Dentin (Dentina): The layer under the enamel. It has tiny channels, so when it is exposed the tooth can feel sensitive.
Pulp (Pulpa): The soft tissue at the center of the tooth, with nerves and blood vessels. It is what people call the nerve. Patients may also say: nervio, el nervio del diente.
Periodontal ligament (Ligamento periodontal): Fibers that connect the tooth root to the surrounding bone and help hold the tooth in place.
Gum / gingiva (Encía): The pink tissue that covers and protects the tooth roots. If it bleeds when you brush, tell your dentist. Patients may also say: encías.
Alveolar bone (Hueso alveolar): The part of the jawbone that holds the tooth roots. Gum disease can damage it, and that damage shows up on x-rays. Patients may also say: hueso que sostiene los dientes, hueso de la mandíbula.
Lower jaw / mandible (Mandíbula): The lower bone of the face, the one that moves when you talk or chew. It connects to the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Patients may also say: quijada, maxilar inferior.
Upper jaw / maxilla (Maxilar superior): The upper bone that holds the top teeth. Toward the back it sits close to the sinus, which matters when planning an implant. Patients may also say: maxilar, arcada de arriba.
Palate / roof of the mouth (Paladar): The roof of the mouth. If you wear dentures, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft brush every morning. Patients may also say: cielo de la boca, techo de la boca.
Bite / occlusion (Mordida): The way your upper and lower teeth meet when you close your mouth. When they don't line up well, it is called malocclusion. Patients may also say: oclusión, cómo cierras la boca.
Saliva (Saliva): The fluid that keeps your mouth moist. It washes away food and supplies calcium, phosphate and fluoride that help keep tooth surfaces strong. Patients may also say: baba.
Temporomandibular joint / TMJ (Articulación temporomandibular / ATM): The hinge that connects the lower jaw to the skull, one on each side of the head. It lets you open, close and move your jaw side to side. Patients may also say: ATM, bisagra de la mandíbula.
Learn more: General dentistry in Kendall
These are the words you'll hear most when something isn't right in your mouth. Sources: NIDCR on gum disease, NIDCR on dry mouth and MedlinePlus on tooth abscess.
Cavity / tooth decay (Caries): Damage to the enamel caused by acids that plaque bacteria make when you eat or drink sugary things. Over time a small hole forms in the tooth. Patients may also say: muela picada, diente picado.
Plaque (Placa bacteriana): A sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If you don't remove it by brushing and cleaning between teeth, it can harden into tartar. Patients may also say: placa, capa pegajosa.
Tartar / calculus (Sarro / cálculo): Plaque that has hardened onto the tooth, above or below the gumline. A toothbrush can't remove it; it takes a professional cleaning. Patients may also say: sarro en los dientes, cálculo dental.
Gingivitis (Gingivitis): The early stage of gum disease: gums look red or swollen and may bleed when you brush or floss. It can often be reversed with good daily care and a professional cleaning. Patients may also say: encías inflamadas, encías rojas.
Bleeding gums (Encías que sangran): The most common cause is plaque buildup at the gumline. Brushing too hard, blood-thinning medicines or dentures that don't fit well can also play a part. Patients may also say: sangrado de encías, me sangran las encías.
Periodontitis / gum disease (Periodontitis): An infection that inflames the tissues holding your teeth in place and can damage the bone. Gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets where plaque collects. Patients may also say: piorrea, enfermedad de las encías.
Periodontal pocket (Bolsa periodontal): The space between gum and tooth that the dentist measures with a small ruler called a probe. Healthy pockets are usually 1 to 3 mm; deeper ones can signal gum disease. Patients may also say: bolsa, bolsa de la encía.
Gum recession (Retracción de encías): When the gum pulls back and shows more of the tooth or part of the root. It can cause sensitivity, and gum disease is one of its causes. Patients may also say: encías retraídas, encías bajadas.
Exposed root (Raíz expuesta): Part of the root left uncovered when the gum recedes. Because enamel doesn't protect it, it is often sensitive to cold or heat. Patients may also say: raíz al aire.
Tooth sensitivity (Sensibilidad dental): A short twinge or discomfort with cold or hot. It can come from cavities, gum disease, worn enamel or an exposed root. Patients may also say: dientes sensibles, me duele con lo frío.
Dental abscess (Absceso dental): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. It can cause strong pain, swelling and fever; if your face or jaw swells, see a dentist that same day, and if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911. Patients may also say: flemón, postemilla.
Fistula / gum boil (Fístula): A small bump or blister on the gum that comes and goes, sometimes with pus. It is often a drain for an infection, so have a dentist check it even if it doesn't hurt. Patients may also say: granito en la encía, bolita en la encía.
Toothache (Dolor de muela): Pain in or around a tooth. It can come from a cavity, a cracked tooth or an abscess; if the pain throbs and won't go away, call your dentist. Patients may also say: dolor de diente, dolor de muelas.
Cracked or chipped tooth (Diente roto o astillado): A tooth with a crack or a broken-off piece. Grinding and injuries are common causes, and a crack can let an infection in. Patients may also say: diente partido, diente despostillado.
Loose adult tooth (Diente flojo en adultos): In an adult, a tooth that moves should be checked soon. It can be a sign of gum disease or an injury. Patients may also say: diente que se mueve.
Bruxism / teeth grinding (Bruxismo): Clenching or grinding your teeth, often during sleep and without noticing. It can leave teeth worn or chipped and cause jaw, head or neck pain. Patients may also say: rechinar los dientes, apretar los dientes.
TMJ disorder / TMD (Trastorno de la ATM): A problem with the jaw joint or jaw muscles. It can cause pain, clicking or popping, or trouble moving the jaw. Patients may also say: dolor de mandíbula, me suena la quijada.
Malocclusion (Maloclusión): When the upper and lower teeth don't line up properly when you bite. It includes crowded, widely spaced or protruding teeth. Patients may also say: mala mordida, dientes torcidos.
Dry mouth / xerostomia (Boca seca / xerostomía): Not having enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. It is not a normal part of aging: hundreds of medicines can cause it, and it raises the risk of cavities. Patients may also say: boca reseca, xerostomía.
Bad breath / halitosis (Halitosis / mal aliento): An unpleasant mouth odor. It often starts in the mouth itself (plaque, gum disease, dry mouth or cavities), though some foods, smoking or nose and sinus problems can play a part. Patients may also say: mal aliento, aliento fuerte.
Dry socket (Alveolitis seca): A painful problem that can happen after an extraction when the blood clot over the socket comes out. Smoking can delay healing; if it happens, call your dentist. Patients may also say: alveolitis, hueco seco.
Impacted tooth (Diente impactado): A tooth trapped in the jaw or under the gum that hasn't fully come in. It often happens with wisdom teeth and can lead to infection, cavities or crowding. Patients may also say: muela retenida, muela atrapada.
Tooth stains / discoloration (Manchas en los dientes): A change in tooth color, on the surface or from inside the tooth. Surface stains can improve with cleaning or whitening; stains from medicines or injuries don't respond to whitening. Patients may also say: dientes amarillos, dientes manchados.
Canker sore (Llaga o afta): A small white or gray sore with a red border inside the mouth. It isn't contagious and usually heals on its own in one or two weeks; if it doesn't, have a dentist look at it. Patients may also say: afta, llaga.
Learn more: Bleeding gums · Bad breath causes · Toothache: what to do · Dental emergencies
What you do at home every day and what the dental team does at your checkups. Sources: ADA MouthHealthy on brushing, flossing and fluoride.
Toothbrush (Cepillo de dientes): Use a soft-bristled brush twice a day. Replace it every 3 or 4 months, or sooner if the bristles fray. Patients may also say: cepillo.
Fluoride toothpaste (Pasta dental con flúor): Toothpaste with fluoride that helps prevent cavities. When you finish, spit it out and don't rinse with water, so the fluoride keeps working on the enamel. Patients may also say: pasta de dientes, crema dental.
Fluoride (Flúor): A naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. It is in toothpaste, in many cities' water and in treatments your dentist applies. Patients may also say: fluoruro.
Dental floss (Hilo dental): A thin thread for cleaning between teeth and just under the gumline. Use it once a day; it doesn't matter if it's before or after brushing, as long as you do it well. Patients may also say: seda dental.
Interdental brush (Cepillo interdental): A tiny brush that fits into the spaces between teeth. It is another way to clean between teeth, handy for hard-to-reach spots. Patients may also say: cepillito interdental, cepillito entre dientes.
Water flosser / oral irrigator (Irrigador bucal): A device that sprays pulses of water to clean between teeth and around the gums. It can help if you have braces or a bridge, or if floss is hard for you. Patients may also say: irrigador, hilo de agua.
Mouthwash / mouth rinse (Enjuague bucal): A liquid you swish in your mouth. Therapeutic rinses have ingredients that help against plaque, gingivitis or cavities; cosmetic ones only mask breath. It doesn't replace brushing or flossing. Patients may also say: enjuague, colutorio.
Tongue scraper (Raspador de lengua): A tool for cleaning the surface of your tongue. Using one is a personal choice: the ADA says there is no evidence it prevents bad breath. Patients may also say: limpiador de lengua.
Dental cleaning / prophylaxis (Limpieza dental / profilaxis): A cleaning done by the dental team to remove plaque, tartar and stains from your teeth. It is the routine cleaning, different from a deep cleaning. Patients may also say: limpieza, profilaxis.
Dental checkup / exam (Chequeo dental): A visit where the dentist examines your teeth, gums, bite and jaw joints to catch problems early. It is often done along with a cleaning. Patients may also say: chequeo, examen dental.
Dental sealants (Sellantes): A thin protective coating bonded to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect their grooves from decay. Both children and adults can benefit. Patients may also say: selladores.
In-office fluoride treatment (Flúor en el consultorio): Fluoride your dentist applies directly to your teeth during a visit, as a gel, foam or liquid. It is common for children, but adults can get it too. Patients may also say: aplicación de flúor, gel de flúor.
Desensitizing toothpaste (Pasta desensibilizante): Toothpaste with ingredients that help block sensation from reaching the tooth's nerve. It usually takes several uses before you notice a difference. Patients may also say: pasta para dientes sensibles.
Learn more: Floss, brush, rinse: what order · Teeth cleaning
The names you'll see on a treatment plan. Being listed here doesn't mean you need it: that depends on your exam. Sources: ADA MouthHealthy on root canals, scaling and root planing and wisdom teeth, and the American Academy of Periodontology.
Filling (Relleno / empaste): Material the dentist places to repair a tooth after removing decay. It can be tooth-colored (composite), silver-colored (amalgam) or other materials. Patients may also say: calza, tapadura.
Composite / tooth-colored filling (Resina compuesta): A tooth-colored filling made of a mix with glass or quartz filler. It works well for small to medium fillings. Patients may also say: relleno blanco, resina.
Amalgam / silver-colored filling (Amalgama): A silver-colored filling made from a mix of metals including mercury, silver, tin and copper. It is very hard-wearing. Patients may also say: relleno plateado, relleno de metal.
Inlay (Incrustación / inlay): A custom restoration made outside the mouth, such as in a lab, and cemented inside the tooth. It sits between a filling and a crown. Patients may also say: incrustación.
Onlay (Onlay): A restoration made outside the mouth that covers one or more cusp tips and the chewing surface. It covers more than an inlay and less than a crown. Patients may also say: incrustación que cubre cúspides.
Dental crown (Corona dental): A tooth-shaped cap that fully covers a damaged or weak tooth to restore its shape and size and protect it. It can also anchor a bridge or cover an implant. Patients may also say: corona, capa.
Temporary crown (Corona temporal): A crown used for a limited time while the permanent one is made. It protects the tooth until the final crown is ready. Patients may also say: corona provisional, provisional.
Dental bridge (Puente dental): Replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth attached to the neighboring teeth. Only a dentist can remove a fixed bridge. Patients may also say: puente, puente fijo.
Pontic (Póntico): The artificial tooth in a bridge, the one that fills the space of the missing tooth. Patients may also say: diente del puente.
Veneer (Carilla): A thin custom shell bonded to the front of a tooth to change its shape or color. A small amount of enamel is removed to place it, so it is not reversible. Patients may also say: carillas, carillas de porcelana.
Teeth whitening (Blanqueamiento dental): A treatment with a bleaching product to lighten tooth color, in the office or at home with custom trays. It doesn't change the color of crowns, veneers or fillings and can cause temporary sensitivity. Patients may also say: blanqueamiento.
Root canal treatment (Tratamiento de canal / endodoncia): A treatment that cleans out a tooth whose pulp (the nerve) is inflamed or infected and seals its canals, to save the tooth instead of removing it. A filling or crown is usually needed afterward. Patients may also say: endodoncia, matar el nervio.
Post and core (Poste): A piece sometimes placed inside a root-canal-treated tooth to support the crown. Patients may also say: perno, espiga.
Apicoectomy (Apicectomía): Surgery that removes the tip of a tooth's root. It is related to root canal treatment; your dentist will explain whether your case needs it. Patients may also say: cirugía de la punta de la raíz.
Tooth extraction (Extracción dental): Removing a tooth from its socket, due to disease, injury or crowding. A blood clot then forms and helps the bone fill in. Patients may also say: sacar una muela, sacarse un diente.
Wisdom tooth / third molar (Muela del juicio): The last molars to come in, usually between ages 17 and 21. They don't always need to come out; removal is considered with pain, infection, cysts, decay or damage to the neighboring tooth. Patients may also say: cordal, muela cordal.
Deep cleaning / scaling and root planing (Limpieza profunda / raspado y alisado radicular): A cleaning below the gumline to treat gum disease: plaque and tartar are removed from the pockets and the roots are smoothed so the gums can reattach. Patients may also say: raspado y alisado, curetaje.
Periodontal maintenance (Mantenimiento periodontal): Follow-up cleanings after gum disease treatment to keep the tissues that support your teeth healthy. Your dentist will tell you how often. Patients may also say: limpieza de mantenimiento.
Gum surgery / periodontal surgery (Cirugía de encías): Surgical treatment that may be needed in advanced cases of gum disease. Patients may also say: cirugía periodontal.
Gum graft (Injerto de encía): Surgery that places gum tissue over an exposed root to protect it and reduce sensitivity. Patients may also say: injerto de tejido.
Bone graft (Injerto óseo): Material placed where bone is missing to rebuild it, for example when there isn't enough bone for an implant. Patients may also say: injerto de hueso.
Sinus lift / sinus augmentation (Elevación de seno): A procedure that raises the sinus floor and builds bone in the upper back jaw so an implant can be placed. Patients may also say: levantamiento de seno, injerto de seno.
Night guard (Guarda nocturna): A guard you wear over your teeth while sleeping if you clench or grind. Your dentist can make one from a mold of your mouth; store-bought ones also exist, so ask which suits you. Patients may also say: placa de descarga, férula.
Orthodontics (Ortodoncia): The branch of dentistry that corrects the bite and tooth position with braces, aligners or other appliances. Patients may also say: frenillos, aparatos.
Braces (Brackets): Small pieces bonded to the teeth and linked by a wire that gradually move the teeth into a new position. Patients may also say: frenillos, frenos.
Clear aligners (Alineadores transparentes): Sets of clear plastic trays changed on a schedule to move the teeth. In some cases they are an alternative to braces. Patients may also say: alineadores, alineadores invisibles.
Retainer (Retenedor): An appliance worn after orthodontic treatment to keep the teeth from shifting back. Patients may also say: contención.
Learn more: Root canal treatment · Deep cleaning: do I need it?
For anyone who wears or is considering a denture, bridge or implant, and for the adult children who help them. Sources: ADA MouthHealthy on dentures, partial dentures and implants.
Complete denture (Dentadura completa): A removable denture that replaces all the upper or lower teeth. A conventional one is made after the gums have healed, which can take several months. Patients may also say: dentadura postiza, plancha.
Removable partial denture (Dentadura parcial removible): Artificial teeth on a gum-colored base, sometimes with a metal framework and clasps that hold onto your natural teeth. You can take it out to clean it. Patients may also say: parcial, prótesis dental removible.
Immediate denture (Dentadura inmediata): A denture placed the same day your remaining teeth are removed, so you aren't without teeth while healing. Once the jaw heals, it may need a reline or a remake. Patients may also say: dentadura del mismo día.
Overdenture (Sobredentadura): A removable denture that rests on a few remaining tooth roots or on implants, which add stability. Patients may also say: dentadura con broches, dentadura de presión.
Fixed full-arch implant bridge (Arcada fija sobre implantes): A full arch of teeth fixed onto several implants that you don't remove at home. Many people know it by the trade name All-on-4. Patients may also say: dentadura fija, dientes fijos.
Dental implant (Implante dental): A post surgically placed in the jawbone to anchor an artificial tooth, a bridge or a denture. Your overall health matters more than your age in deciding whether it's an option. Patients may also say: implante, tornillo.
Osseointegration (Oseointegración): The process in which bone grows around the implant and holds it in place. Your dentist will tell you how long to wait in your case.
Implant abutment (Pilar del implante / abutment): The piece that connects the implant to the crown, bridge or denture. Insurance paperwork lists it as an abutment. Patients may also say: conector.
Implant crown (Corona sobre implante): The crown that sits on top of an implant: the visible part, made to blend in with your other teeth. Patients may also say: diente del implante.
Clasps (Ganchos): Small arms, usually metal, that hold a partial denture onto your natural teeth. Patients may also say: ganchitos.
Precision attachments (Ataches de precisión): A way to attach a partial denture without visible clasps. It generally looks more natural but usually costs more. Patients may also say: ataches.
Reline (Rebase): Resurfacing the side of the denture that touches the gums with new material so it fits again. It is common after an immediate denture, once the jaw has healed. Patients may also say: rebasado, rebasar la dentadura.
Denture adjustment (Ajuste de dentadura): Small changes the dentist makes so the denture doesn't hurt. In the first weeks it's normal for it to feel odd or loose while you get used to it. Patients may also say: ajuste, arreglar la dentadura.
Loose denture (Dentadura floja): A denture that moves when you talk or chew. It can happen at first, but if it continues or hurts, ask for an adjustment or reline instead of fixing it yourself. Patients may also say: plancha floja, se me cae la dentadura.
Denture adhesive (Pegamento para dentadura): A cream, powder, strip or pad that helps hold a denture in place. Follow the label directions and look for the ADA Seal. Patients may also say: pegamento, adhesivo para dentadura.
Denture cleanser (Limpiador de dentadura): A non-abrasive product for cleaning dentures. Brush them daily with a soft brush and, when you're not wearing them, keep them in water so they don't warp; never in hot or boiling water. Patients may also say: pastillas para la dentadura, limpiador.
Interim prosthesis (Prótesis provisional): A denture or bridge used for a limited time, while the mouth heals or the final one is made. Patients may also say: provisional, temporal.
Missing tooth (Diente faltante): The gap left when a tooth is lost. It can be replaced with a bridge, a partial denture or an implant, depending on your case. Patients may also say: hueco, espacio vacío.
Dental impression (Impresión dental / molde): A copy of your teeth and gums, taken with a putty or a scanner, used to make crowns, guards, aligners or dentures. Patients may also say: molde, impresión.
Learn more: Dentures in Miami · Dental implants · Regular, snap-in or fixed dentures · Loose dentures: what to do
What happens at your visit before any treatment. Sources: MedlinePlus on dental x-rays, ADA on CBCT and ADA MouthHealthy on anesthesia and sedation.
Dental x-ray (Radiografía dental): An image that shows what you can't see with the eye: decay between teeth, bone, roots or infections. It is taken when the dentist believes it will give needed information for your case. Patients may also say: placa, rayos X.
Bitewing x-ray (Radiografía de mordida / bitewing): An x-ray where you bite on a small tab; it shows the crowns of upper and lower teeth together. It helps find cavities between teeth. Patients may also say: aleta de mordida.
Periapical x-ray (Radiografía periapical): An x-ray of one or two whole teeth, from crown to root tip. It helps, for example, to see an abscess. Patients may also say: periapical.
Panoramic x-ray (Radiografía panorámica): A single image of all the teeth and both jaws, taken by a machine that rotates around your head. It helps show wisdom teeth, bone and the jaw. Patients may also say: panorámica.
Cone beam CT / CBCT (Tomografía / CBCT): A 3D image of the jaws and face used, for example, to plan surgery such as implants, orthodontics or root canal treatment. Patients may also say: tomografía 3D, escáner 3D.
Intraoral scanner (Escáner intraoral): A small camera that takes a digital impression of your teeth to make crowns, aligners and other devices, instead of traditional impression putty. Patients may also say: escáner, impresión digital.
Periodontal probing / charting (Sondaje periodontal): The dentist uses a probe (a tiny ruler) to measure the space between gum and tooth at several points. The numbers are recorded in your chart. Patients may also say: periodontograma, medir las encías.
Comprehensive oral exam (Examen bucal completo): The thorough exam at your first visit: teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints and mouth tissues. It usually comes with x-rays. Patients may also say: examen completo, evaluación inicial.
Treatment plan (Plan de tratamiento): The list of treatments your dentist recommends, in order and sometimes in phases. It can be sent to your insurer before starting to see what it would cover (predetermination). Patients may also say: plan.
Treatment estimate (Presupuesto): A document with the estimated cost of your treatment plan and, if you have insurance, what the plan might pay and what your share would be. It is an estimate: what the insurer pays is confirmed when the claim is processed. Patients may also say: estimado, cotización.
Local anesthesia (Anestesia local): Medicine that numbs one area of the mouth by blocking the nerves that sense pain. It is used for fillings, gum treatment and other procedures. Patients may also say: anestesia, inyección.
Topical anesthetic (Anestesia tópica): A gel or cream put on the gum before the injection to numb the surface. Patients may also say: gel para adormecer, gel anestésico.
Sedation (Sedación): Medicines that help you relax during a procedure. There are different levels, and complex treatments may call for deeper sedation. Patients may also say: sedación consciente, calmante.
Nitrous oxide / laughing gas (Óxido nitroso): A gas mixed with oxygen and breathed through a small mask to help you relax. It doesn't put you to sleep, and it wears off quickly once the mask is removed. Patients may also say: gas de la risa, gas.
Dental emergency (Emergencia dental): A problem that needs prompt care: throbbing pain that won't stop, a bump on the gum, an injury or a broken tooth. If your face or jaw swells, get care the same day; if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911. Patients may also say: emergencia, dolor fuerte de muela.
DMD / DDS (DMD / DDS): The two U.S. dentist degrees (Doctor of Dental Medicine and Doctor of Dental Surgery). They are the same training; each school decides which one it awards. Patients may also say: doctor en odontología.
Learn more: General dentistry in Kendall
For parents and grandparents caring for little ones' teeth. Sources: ADA MouthHealthy on baby teeth and healthy habits for kids.
Baby teeth / primary teeth (Dientes de leche): The first 20 teeth. They start coming in around 6 months, and most are in by age 3; even though they fall out, they need care. Patients may also say: dientes temporales, dientes primarios.
Teething (Dentición / salida de los dientes): The stage when a baby's first teeth come in, usually from about 6 months, most often starting with the lower front teeth. Patients may also say: le están saliendo los dientes, echar los dientes.
First dental visit (Primera visita al dentista): It should happen when the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. Patients may also say: primera cita del niño.
Fluoride varnish (Barniz de flúor): A fluoride coating the dentist paints on the teeth in a few minutes to help prevent cavities. Patients may also say: flúor barniz, barniz.
Baby bottle tooth decay / early childhood caries (Caries del biberón): Tooth decay in babies and toddlers, most often in the upper front teeth. It is linked to frequent sugary drinks, such as a bottle at bedtime. Patients may also say: caries de la primera infancia, caries de biberón.
Toothpaste amount for kids (Cantidad de pasta para niños): Under age 3: a smear the size of a grain of rice. Ages 3 to 6: a pea-sized amount, and teach your child not to swallow it. Patients may also say: grano de arroz, tamaño de un chícharo.
First permanent molars (Primeras muelas permanentes): The first adult molars come in around age 6 and the second ones around 12. Sealing them soon after they come in is recommended. Patients may also say: muelas de los 6 años.
Thumb sucking (Chuparse el dedo): A common habit in babies. After permanent teeth come in, it can affect how the mouth grows and how teeth line up; pacifiers can have similar effects. Patients may also say: chupete, tete.
Space maintainer (Mantenedor de espacio): An appliance, usually cemented in place, that holds teeth in position, for example when a baby tooth is lost early. Patients may also say: mantenedor.
Pulpotomy (Pulpotomía): The diseased part of the pulp (the nerve) is removed and the healthy part is kept alive. It is used mainly in baby teeth. Patients may also say: tratamiento del nervio en dientes de leche.
Learn more: Floss, brush, rinse: what order
These words show up in your policy, your estimate and your EOB. Every plan has its own rules, so use them to ask the right questions. Sources: the HealthCare.gov glossary and the ADA administrative glossary.
Dental insurance / dental benefit plan (Seguro dental): A plan that pays part of your dental costs under its own rules: network, deductible, copays or percentages and an annual maximum. Every plan is different, so it's worth verifying before your visit. Patients may also say: aseguranza, plan dental.
Premium (Prima): The amount you pay for your insurance every month, whether you use it or not. Patients may also say: cuota mensual, mensualidad.
Deductible (Deducible): The amount you pay for covered services before your plan starts to pay. Some plans don't apply it to certain preventive services; check yours.
Copayment / copay (Copago): A fixed amount you pay for a covered service. Your plan lists the copay for each service. Patients may also say: co-pago.
Coinsurance (Coaseguro): The percentage of a covered service's cost that you pay after the deductible. If the plan pays 80%, your share is 20%. Patients may also say: porcentaje, tu parte.
Annual maximum (Máximo anual): The most your dental plan will pay in a benefit year. Once you reach it, you pay the rest until the plan renews. Patients may also say: tope anual, límite anual.
Out-of-pocket maximum (Gastos máximos de bolsillo): In health insurance, the most you pay in a year for covered services. Many adult dental plans work the other way: they cap what the plan pays, not what you pay. Patients may also say: máximo de bolsillo.
Waiting period (Periodo de espera): The time between enrolling and when the plan starts covering certain services, such as some major treatments. Patients may also say: espera.
Network (Red): The dentists and clinics that have a contract with your plan. Patients may also say: red de proveedores.
In-network / participating dentist (Dentro de la red): The dentist has a contract with your plan and charges agreed rates, so you usually pay less. Patients may also say: en la red, participante.
Out-of-network (Fuera de la red): The dentist has no contract with your plan. Depending on the plan type, the insurer may pay less or nothing, and you may be billed the difference. Patients may also say: no participante.
Balance billing (Cobro de la diferencia): When the dentist bills you for the difference between their fee and what the insurer paid. It usually happens out of network.
Allowed amount (Monto permitido): The most the plan will pay for a covered service. Your copay or coinsurance is based on that amount. Patients may also say: monto aprobado, tarifa pactada.
PPO / Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): A plan with a network of participating providers. You pay less in network, but you can go out of network for an added cost. Patients may also say: plan PPO, organización de proveedores preferidos.
HMO / DHMO / dental HMO (HMO / DHMO): A plan that usually covers care only from providers in its network; out of network it generally doesn't pay except in emergencies. Many dental HMOs use fixed copays and an assigned primary dentist. Patients may also say: DHMO, HMO dental.
Referral (Referido): A written order to see another provider or get certain services. In many HMOs, if you don't get the referral first, the plan may not pay. Patients may also say: referencia.
Preauthorization / prior authorization (Preautorización): The plan's decision, before treatment, that a service is medically necessary. It isn't a promise the plan will pay for it. Patients may also say: autorización previa.
Predetermination / pre-treatment estimate (Predeterminación): The office sends your treatment plan to the insurer before starting to learn what it would cover. It helps avoid surprises, though it doesn't ensure payment. Patients may also say: pre-estimado.
Claim (Reclamación): The request for payment sent to the insurer after treatment, with the codes for what was done. Patients may also say: reclamo.
Explanation of benefits / EOB (EOB / explicación de beneficios): A statement your insurer sends after processing a claim: what was billed, what the plan paid and what you owe. It isn't a bill. Patients may also say: explicación de beneficios.
Reimbursement (Reembolso): What the insurer pays for a service, to the office or to you if you paid first. Out of network, you sometimes pay and then request reimbursement.
CDT codes (Códigos CDT): The ADA's list of codes for each dental procedure, such as a cleaning or a crown. They appear on estimates, claims and EOBs and are updated every year. Patients may also say: códigos, código del procedimiento.
Frequency limitation (Limitación de frecuencia): A plan rule limiting how often it covers a service, such as a set number of cleanings or x-rays a year. An extra one may be your cost. Patients may also say: frecuencias, cada cuánto cubre.
Missing tooth clause (Cláusula de diente faltante): A rule in some plans that won't cover replacing a tooth that was already missing before your coverage began, whether with a bridge, partial or implant. Ask about it before planning a replacement.
Alternate benefit / LEAT (Beneficio alterno): A rule that lets the plan pay as if a lower-cost alternative had been done. For example, paying a tooth-colored filling as a silver one; you pay the difference. Patients may also say: tratamiento alterno.
Coordination of benefits / COB (Coordinación de beneficios): How two plans share payment when you have more than one: one pays first and the other second. Patients may also say: doble seguro, dos seguros.
Preventive, basic and major services (Servicios preventivos, básicos y mayores): Many plans group treatments into categories (preventive such as cleanings, basic such as fillings and major such as crowns) and cover a different percentage for each. Patients may also say: clases de servicio, categorías de cobertura.
Benefit year and renewal date (Año del plan y fecha de renovación): The 12-month period your deductible and annual maximum run on. It may be the calendar year or start on another date; when it renews, the counters reset. Patients may also say: renovación, año de beneficios.
Unused benefits (Beneficio no usado): The part of your annual maximum you haven't used. In many plans it doesn't carry over, so it's worth checking what's left before your renewal date. Patients may also say: beneficios sin usar, lo que te queda del seguro.
Benefits verification (Verificación de beneficios): The office checks with your plan what it covers, what your share is and whether there are limits or waiting periods. At PureSmile it's free. Patients may also say: verificar el seguro, verificación.
Learn more: U.S. dental insurance explained · Dental insurance in Kendall · PPO benefits before December 31
PureSmile Miami is not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or CMS. Your dental benefits depend on your plan; we verify them for free. Sources: Medicare.gov on dental services, the parts of Medicare and when you can change plans.
Original Medicare / Parts A and B (Medicare Original): The federal government's Medicare, made up of Part A and Part B. It doesn't cover most dental services, such as cleanings, fillings, extractions or dentures, except in limited cases tied to medical treatment or a hospital stay. Patients may also say: Medicare tradicional, Medicare regular.
Medicare Part A (Parte A): Helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and some home health care. Only in limited cases does it cover dental services during a hospital stay. Patients may also say: seguro de hospital.
Medicare Part B (Parte B): Helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, medical equipment and many preventive services. It covers some dental services only when tied to certain medical treatments. Patients may also say: seguro médico.
Medicare Advantage / Part C (Medicare Advantage / Parte C): A private, Medicare-approved plan that bundles Parts A and B and usually Part D. Many offer extra benefits, like dental, that Original Medicare doesn't cover; what's included depends on your plan. Patients may also say: Parte C.
Medicare Part D (Parte D): Prescription drug coverage. You add it separately to Original Medicare or get it inside many Medicare Advantage plans. Patients may also say: cobertura de medicamentos.
Supplemental dental benefit (Beneficio dental suplementario): Dental coverage some Medicare Advantage plans add on top of Original Medicare. Each plan sets what's included, its limits and its network; verify it before your visit. Patients may also say: beneficio dental, dental del Advantage.
Open Enrollment Period / AEP (Periodo de inscripción anual / AEP): October 15 to December 7 each year. You can switch Medicare Advantage plans, move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or change drug coverage; new coverage starts January 1. Patients may also say: inscripción abierta.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Periodo de inscripción abierta de Medicare Advantage): January 1 to March 31, only if you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan. You can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare; the change starts the first of the following month.
Plan network (Red del plan): The dentists and clinics contracted with your Medicare Advantage plan. Some plans only cover in network, others pay something out of network; confirm before booking. Patients may also say: red, proveedores del plan.
Plan ID card (Tarjeta del plan): If you have Medicare Advantage, you use your plan's card to get services, not your Medicare card. Keep your Medicare card in case you switch plans or go back to Original Medicare. Patients may also say: tarjeta del Advantage, tarjeta del seguro.
Medicare card (Tarjeta de Medicare): It shows your Medicare Number, which isn't your Social Security Number, and whether you have Part A, Part B or both and since when. Patients may also say: tarjeta roja, blanca y azul.
Medigap / Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap / Seguro Suplementario de Medicare): Extra insurance bought from a private company to help pay copays, coinsurance and deductibles left by Original Medicare. You generally need Part A and Part B. Patients may also say: suplemento de Medicare, plan suplementario.
Learn more: Medicare dental in Kendall · Medicare open enrollment 2027: dental checklist
PureSmile Miami opens November 2, 2026, at 8000 SW 117th Ave, Suite 100, in Kendall. At your visit we explain every term in English or Spanish, whichever you prefer, and give you your treatment plan in writing before we start.
Join the waitlist or call (305) 787-3642.
A deductible is what you pay for covered services before your plan starts paying. A copay is a fixed amount you pay for a covered service. Your plan sets which ones apply to each treatment.
Yes. Endodoncia is the Spanish term for root canal treatment, which cleans and seals the inside of a tooth with an inflamed or infected nerve to save it. Many Spanish speakers simply say tratamiento de canal.
Original Medicare doesn't cover implants or dentures. Some Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits, but what they cover depends on your plan; we verify it for free.
Check your plan card and your policy, or call the customer service number on the card. You can also share your plan details with us and we'll verify your benefits for free before your visit.
General information; not a substitute for an in-person exam. Responsible dentist: Dr. Yoan Suárez Zayas, DMD (FL License DN 21413). Sources: ADA MouthHealthy (A–Z topics), ADA clinical and administrative glossaries, ADA CDT, ADA News, MedlinePlus, NIDCR, American Academy of Periodontology (perio.org), HealthCare.gov / CuidadoDeSalud.gov and Medicare.gov.
