Current Dental Terminology (CDT) Codes for Dental Procedures

Whether you are performing tooth extractions, root canals, or simply cleaning some teeth, precise coding is essential for differentiating various dental procedures. We all know the drill! Just like other practices, dental clinics can only sustain their operations through accurate billing. And for that, they should be familiar with the most widely used dental codes.

But there is a catch! Did you know that dental procedures have a completely different coding system? Instead of CPT, oral health treatments and services are represented by Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes. So, let’s shed some light on CDT’s significance before moving on to the common dental codes and best coding guidelines.

What are Current Dental Terminology (CDT) Codes?

Coding is a complex process. Therefore, it is common for many dentists to get confused between CPT and CDT codes. Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes represent oral health procedures. Designed and maintained by the American Dental Association (ADA), CDT codes are approved by HIPAA to report the performed dental procedures to insurance payers.

From diagnostic to adjunctive general services, dentists can use specific CDT codes to request reimbursements from dental insurance companies for a wide range of services. Each procedural code begins with the letter “D”, highlighting a specific treatment. Like CPT, these codes are revised annually to include innovative treatments and remove outdated dental procedures.

Common Dental CDT Codes 2024

How can you receive timely payments from insurance companies if you are not well-versed in dental coding? The billing process for dental procedures would be quite simple if the corresponding codes remained the same. Unfortunately, dental practices make frequent coding errors due to annual coding updates.

Since accurate coding is the key to clear communication between dentists and payers, you should pay special attention to this area. You can hire a dedicated coding team or familiarize yourself with as many dental codes as possible.

ADA maintains a long list of 800+ CDT codes, which makes it humanly impossible to remember all of them. Therefore, we have compiled some of the most common dental CDT codes to help you get started.

Dental CDT Codes for Diagnostic Procedures

CDT Code D0120 – Regular Oral Evaluation (Established Patient)

The D0120 is one of the diagnostic dental procedural codes. Dentists use this code to claim reimbursement for oral evaluation of regular patients. This assessment typically involves various tests to detect oral issues such as tooth decay. 

In short, dental code D0120 is used to specify a diagnostic procedure performed to identify changes in the patient’s dental health since their last checkup.

CDT Code D0150 – Comprehensive Oral Exam (New or Long-Time Patient)

This diagnostic dental CDT code points towards a complete oral exam. Dentists use the D0150 CDT code to bill for an all-inclusive oral assessment typically performed on a new patient. However, they can also use this code to claim reimbursement for diagnosing long-term patients with significant health changes.

This in-depth oral evaluation usually involves the analysis of the patient’s entire mouth, including lips, tongue, teeth, gums, and throat. During this procedure, dental specialists also examine the client’s medical history and take X-rays to identify problems.

Dental CDT Codes for Preventive Procedures

CDT Code D1110 – Prophylaxis on an Adult

The D1110 dental CDT code specifies a cleaning process and prophylaxis. Dental hygienists use this code to bill the scaling process performed on an adult. They use special cleaning and polishing tools to remove bacteria and plaque in this procedure.

This cleaning is essential for many patients and helps them avoid Gingivitis – a common disease that leads to irritated, bleeding, and swollen gums.

CDT Code D1120 – Prophylaxis on a Child

The D1120 dental CDT code is quite similar to the D1110 code. However, this code refers to the scaling procedure performed on a child. Dentists use the D1120 CDT code to claim reimbursement for removing tartar and plaque from a child’s teeth. 

This dental cleaning procedure is performed on the primary teeth (milk teeth) and is essential for preventing bad breath.

CDT Code D1206: Application of a Protective Layer (Fluoride Varnish)

This preventive dental CDT code refers to the topical application of fluoride varnish. Dental professionals use dental code D1206 to request payment for adding a protective layer to a patient’s teeth. This procedure helps to prevent cavities and tooth decay and is necessary for strengthening a patient’s teeth.

Dental CDT Codes for Restorative Procedures

CDT Code D2740 – Ceramic or Porcelain Crown

The D2740 is one of the most common restorative dental CDT codes. Dentists use it to report that they have covered the damaged part of a patient’s tooth. In this procedure, dental professionals place a porcelain or ceramic crown (a tooth-shaped cap) over a dental implant or a root canal-treated tooth.

CDT Code D2950 – Dental Core-Buildup

This dental code points towards a restorative procedure performed before placing a crown. Dentists use the D2950 dental CDT code to request payment for a core buildup process. In this process, dental professionals replace the old and weak core with special filling so the new structure can support a dental crown.

Dental CDT Codes for Endodontics (Root Canal) Procedures

CDT Code D3310 – D3330 – Initial Root Canal (Anterior/Bicuspid/Molar Tooth)

The D3310 to D3330 dental CDT codes address the initial root canal procedure. Dental professionals use these codes to specify that they have performed a root canal on one of the anterior, bicuspid, or molar teeth of an adult. During this process, dentists remove inflamed/infected pulp inside a tooth and refill it after cleaning and disinfection. These codes do not cover the final restoration.

CDT Code D3346 – D3348 – Previous Root Canal Treatment (Anterior/Bicuspid/Molar Tooth)

These dental CDT codes specify the retreatment of the previous root canal. Endodontists use one of the D3346 to D3348 dental CDT codes to claim compensation for treating further infections. Dental professionals reopen the tooth and remove the previous filling to identify new infections in this procedure. If they find any, they clean the root canal, then re-pack and re-crown the tooth. 

Dental CDT Codes for Periodontics (Gums & Supporting Structures) Procedures

CDT Code D4212 – Gingivectomy/Gingivoplasty

The D4212 dental code is one of the latest additions to ADA’s CDT code set. It signifies two surgical periodontal procedures, Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty. Periodontists use this dental CDT code after removing or reshaping the gum tissues of a patient. These procedures are essential for some restorative dental services.

CDT Code D4341 – Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing (4 or more Teeth)

The D4341 dental CDT code supports the gum health of a patient. It is used to bill a procedure that involves thorough cleaning of the roots of the teeth. During this process, dentists remove calculus, plaque, and bacteria and smooth out rough spots on four or more teeth per quadrant. In short, the D4341 dental CDT code addresses one of the gum disease treatments.

CDT Code D4342 – Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing (1 to 3 Teeth/Quadrant)

The D4342 dental CDT code also refers to the periodontal scaling and root planing procedure. However, it involves the thorough root cleaning of one to three teeth within a specific section of the mouth. It could be upper right, upper left, lower right, or lower left. Periodontists use this code to claim reimbursement for cleaning bacteria from the tooth’s root and crown.

CDT Code D4355 – Full Mouth Debridement

The D4355 dental CDT code highlights a nonsurgical process for thoroughly cleaning a patient’s mouth. Periodontists use this code to bill payers for the full mouth debridement process. This procedure is essential for diagnosing periodontal conditions.

Dental professionals usually perform it when they cannot assess the gum health of a patient due to heavy plaque and tartar buildup.

CDT Code D4910 – Periodontal Maintenance

This dental CDT code refers to the process of maintaining gum health. Periodontists use the D4910 code to report ongoing periodontal care. This maintenance typically includes dental scaling, evaluation, and reinforcement of oral hygiene practices. Periodontists usually perform this process four times a year.

Dental CDT Codes for Removable Prosthodontics (Teeth Replacement) Procedures

CDT Code D5110 – Complete Maxillary (Upper Jaw) Denture

The D5110 is one of the most commonly used prosthodontic CDT codes. Prosthodontists use this dental CDT code to request payment for placing a full denture in a patient’s upper jaw. In this procedure, trained dental specialists use a customized prosthetic to replace all the missing teeth and tissues in the maxillary. 

In simple terms, CDT code D5110 refers to a treatment that restores a patient’s appearance and dental function.

CDT Code D5120 – Complete Mandibular (Lower Jaw) Denture

The D5120 CDT is similar to the D5110 code. But instead of the upper jaw, this dental CDT code refers to a complete denture in the patient’s lower jaw.

CDT Codes D5130-D5140 – Immediate Denture (Maxillary/Mandibular)

These dental CDT codes refer to placing pre-made prosthetics in the patient’s upper or lower jaw right after tooth extraction. Prosthodontists use the D5130 dental CDT code to bill for placing immediate dentures in the patient’s maxillary (upper jaw), whereas D5140 refers to the prosthetic placement in the mandibular (lower jaw). These procedures allow patients to have a functional set of teeth immediately.

CDT Codes D5211-D5212 – Resin-Based Partial Denture (Maxillary/Mandibular)

These dental CDT codes specify partial dentures with resin bases. Prosthodontists use the D5211 CDT code to claim reimbursement for replacing one more missing tooth in the upper jaw and D5212 to replace a missing tooth in a patient’s lower jaw. These partial dentures with metal clasps provide support to the remaining natural teeth.

CDT Codes D5213-D5214 – Partial Denture with Cast Metal Framework & Resin Bases (Maxillary/Mandibular) 

The D5213 and D5214 dental CDT codes notify payers about the partial denture procedures with cast metal framework and resin bases. Dental professionals use the D5213 CDT code for placing partial dentures in a patient’s upper jaw, whereas the D5214 code is used to bill the lower jaw partial prosthesis. The metal framework of these dentures offers stability, while resin bases support the artificial teeth.

Dental CDT Codes for Implant Services

CDT Codes D6010 – Endosteal Implant (Surgical Placement)

The D6010 CDT code points towards a surgical placement of an implant body. Dental professionals use this code to notify that they have placed an endosteal dental implant into a patient’s jawbone. Simply put, they surgically insert this implant in place of a missing tooth so it infuses with the surrounding tissue to support a dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental CDT Codes for Fixed Prosthodontics (Teeth Replacement) Procedures

CDT Code D6240 – Pontic (Porcelain Bridge)

The D6240 refers to a common fixed prosthodontic procedure – pontic. Dental professionals use this code to specify that they have created and placed an artificial tooth, made from a combination of porcelain and high noble metal, in a dental bridge. This pontic fills the gap in a dental bridge, improving a patient’s facial appearance.

CDT Code D6750 – Crown Implant 

This dental code refers to a process of placing a crown on a dental implant to cover a missing tooth. Prosthodontists use the D6750 CDT code to claim reimbursement for restoring a damaged or weakened tooth. The procedure uses a crown made from a combination of porcelain and high noble metal for better stability.

Dental CDT Codes for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeries 

CDT Code D7140 – Simple Extraction (Erupted Tooth / Exposed Root)

The D7140 CDT code highlights the extraction of an erupted tooth or an exposed root. Dentists usually use the elevation technique to loosen the tooth or root and then utilize forceps to extract it. To put it simply, this code covers straightforward non-surgical extraction.

CDT Code D7210 – Surgical Extraction (Erupted Tooth)

This code refers to a more complex extraction method. Dentists use this code when they surgically remove a patient’s erupted tooth. This process typically includes removing surrounding bone or sectioning the tooth.

Dental CDT Codes for Orthodontic (Teeth Alignment) Procedures 

CDT Code D8080 – Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment for Young People

The D8080 CDT code signifies a full course of orthodontic treatment performed on adolescents. Orthodontists use this code to bill the treatment for facial irregularities, including bad bites and crooked and crowded teeth. They typically use braces and other tools to correct these problems.

Dental CDT Codes for Adjunctive General Services

CDT Code D9110 – Emergency Treatment (Dental Pain)

The D9110 CDT code addresses an emergency treatment. Dentists use this code to provide temporary relief from dental pain.

CDT Code D9910 – Application of Desensitizing Medication

This CDT code specifies the application of a desensitizing medicine. Dentists use this code when they apply medicine to treat a patient’s tooth sensitivity, usually after cleaning, filling, or whitening procedures. They also use it after treating patients with chronically sensitive teeth.

Dental Coding Guidelines

Many dental practices have low first-pass claim approval rates due to incorrect coding. However, this is understandable because not everyone can keep up with the annual coding updates. And even if you stay updated with all the changes, you may not be able to understand the latest additions if you are not a coding expert.

The billing process for dental services has a simple formula – accurate coding equals quick reimbursements. But how can you achieve these results? Instead of believing hearsay, follow our proper coding practices to avoid billing errors and legal consequences.

Use Accurate CDT Codes

Improve your coding accuracy! You should be familiar with all the relevant CDT codes so you can use them in appropriate situations. Dental procedures are divided into several categories. So, whether you have performed an orthodontic, prosthodontic, or any other treatment, make sure to use specific codes to avoid claim denials.

Follow Annual Revisions 

The American Dental Association makes annual revisions to dental codes. Therefore, stay updated with all the latest additions and changes to avoid potential penalties and audits. This step will not only improve the accuracy of your medical claims but also maximize your practice’s revenue.

Stay Compliant

Payers and the federal government mandate compliance to reduce fraud within healthcare billing. Therefore, follow payer and state-specific coding requirements to avoid claim denials and legal consequences.  

Maintain Comprehensive Patient Records

Documentation increases the accuracy of coding. Therefore, you should maintain proper records of every patient, including dental history and provided treatment, to avoid coding errors. Documentation also speeds up the reimbursement process since it helps you provide necessary information to the payers.

Bottom Line

Annual revisions, complex cases, procedural changes, regulatory compliance, and regular training! These are some of the factors that can impact your billing outcomes. Accurate coding requires extra time and effort. 

If you don’t have a proper team or the time to juggle coding and your primary operations, get professional assistance to prevent claim denials. Many dental billing services include a standalone coding process. Go through the best options and select the one that perfectly aligns with your requirements and budget.