What Are the Three Classifications of Dental Services?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Patients often ask me, “What are the three classifications of dental services?” Most dental insurance plans sort treatments into three main categories. These classifications help you understand what your plan will cover and how much you may need to pay out of pocket. At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we explain each category clearly so you always know what to expect.
Here are the three classifications of dental services:
1. Preventive Services
Preventive care is the first and most important category. These services help stop dental problems before they start. Preventive services include:
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Regular cleanings
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Exams
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X-rays
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Fluoride treatments
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Sealants
Most insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%, because catching problems early keeps your mouth healthy and saves money long-term. Preventive care is the foundation of dental health, and I always encourage patients to stay consistent with these visits.
2. Basic Services
Basic services treat early or moderate problems. They include:
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Tooth-colored fillings
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Simple extractions
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Basic gum therapy
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Emergency treatments for minor issues
Insurance usually covers 70–80% of basic services. These treatments are essential because they stop small issues from becoming major ones. Fixing cavities early, for example, can prevent the need for a crown or root canal later.
3. Major Services
Major services are more complex treatments that restore heavily damaged or missing teeth. These include:
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Crowns
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Bridges
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Dentures
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Root canals
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Some implant-related procedures (coverage varies by plan)
Insurance typically covers 50% of major services. At my office, we always go over your estimate ahead of time so you fully understand your costs.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, I provide treatment in all three categories—from preventive care to advanced procedures like dental implants, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and full-mouth reconstruction. No matter what you need, my office is a no judgment zone, and we’ll work together to create a plan that fits your goals and budget.
So, the three classifications of dental services are preventive, basic, and major—each one playing an important role in your long-term oral health.