Glossary of Common Dental Terms - G-L

Gingivitis - an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth caused by a buildup of plaque or food particles.

Gum disease - see periodontitis.

Halitosis - bad breath

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) - a legal entity that accepts responsibility and financial risk for providing specified services to a defined population during a defined period of time at a fixed price. An organized system of health care delivery that provides comprehensive care to enrollees through designated providers. Enrollees are generally assessed a monthly payment for health care services and may be required to remain in the program for a specified amount of time.

HIAA - Health Insurance Association of America -advocate on behalf of the industry in the states and in the nation's capital. The organization tracks health-related regulatory activity in key federal agencies; participates in rulemaking; provides information on recently enacted legislation; provides guidance on implementation of federal health initiatives; and works closely with member companies to provide information and feedback to federal officials.

HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 - the law's primary intent is to provide better access to health insurance, limit fraud and abuse, and reduce administrative costs through simplification.

HRSA - Health Resources Services Administration - a division of DHHS. The organization directs national health programs that improve the nation's health by assuring equitable access to comprehensive, quality health care for all.

Indemnity plan - a dental plan where a third-party payer provides payment of an amount for specific services, regardless of the actual charges made by the provider. Payment may be made either to enrollees or, by assignment, directly to dentists (e.g., schedule of allowances, table of allowances, or reasonable and customary plans).