Is an occlusal adjustment the same as braces?

Question

I was looking at dental plans and they never say the average coverage on braces, they usually, but not always, say "occlusal adjustment." So I really need to know the difference before I make a decision. Thanks.

Answer 1

Braces and occlusal adjustment are completely different things. I assume you know what braces are, but your "occlusion" is the way your teeth fit together when you gently bite them together, not necessarily clenching them, just biting down. Sometimes people's occlusion can cause them to bite on one side of their mouth harder than the other, or to bite on one tooth harder than all their other teeth. So they have their occlusion adjusted by shaving down the teeth that they are biting on the hardest so that their bite is more comfortable.

I've never seen this procedure listed on insurance forms before, but it's a really common thing to have done, especially if you've had a cavity that's been filled and need adjusted. It would probably be a good idea to call and ask the insurance companies exactly what they mean by it. Hope this helps:)