Updates to your practice management software may not include the entire CDT Code and descriptor as some omit language due to space limitations.
The purpose of using CDT codes is to provide a uniform and consistent reporting mechanism to accurately document the services delivered. Just because a code exists doesn’t mean the procedure is considered “the standard of care” or is considered reimbursable by a dental benefits plan. Treatment plans must be developed based on medical necessity and professional standards. Services must be reported based on descriptor language. It is extremely important that the code used accurately describes the service being provided to your patient.
The 2019 CDT book includes 15 new codes, 5 revised codes and 4 deleted codes and is available through the ADA.
Click here for the 2019 CDT Book
D0412 blood glucose level test – in office using a glucose meter
This procedure provides an immediate finding of a patient’s bloods glucose level at the time of sample collection for the point-of service analysis.
D1516 space maintainer – fixed bilateral, maxillary
D1517 space maintainer – fixed bilateral, mandibular
D1526 space maintainer – removable – bilateral, maxillary
D1527 space maintainer – removable – bilateral, mandibular
D5282 removable unilateral partial denture
One piece cast metal (including clasps and teeth), maxillary
D5283 removable unilateral partial denture
One piece cast metal ( including clasps and teeth), mandibular
D5876 add metal substructure to acrylic full denture (per arch)
D9944 occlusal guard – hard appliance, full arch
Removable appliance designed to minimize the effects of bruxism or other occlusal factor. Not to be reported for any type of sleep apnea, snoring or TMD appliances.
D9945 occlusal guard – soft appliance, full arch
Removable dental appliance designed to minimize the effects of bruxism or other occlusal factors. Not to be reported for any types of sleep apnea, snoring or TMD appliances.
D9946 occlusal guard – hard appliance, partial arch
Removable dental appliance designed to minimize the effects of bruxism or other occlusal factors. Provides only partial occlusal coverage such as anterior deprogrammer. Not to be reported for any type of sleep apnea, snoring or TMD appliances.
D9130 temporomandibular joint dysfunction – non-invasive physical therapies
Therapy including but not limited to massage, diathermy, ultrasound, or cold application to provide relief from muscle spasms, inflammation or pain, intending to improve freedom of motion and joint function. This should be reported on a per session basis.
D9613 infiltration of sustained release therapeutic drug – single or multiple sites
Infiltration of a sustained release pharmacologic agent for long acting surgical site pain control. Not for local anesthesia purpose,
D9961 duplicate/ copy patient’s records
D9990 certified translation or sign-language services – per visit
Revisions
D4230 anatomical crown exposure – four or more contiguous teeth or tooth bounded spaces per quadrant
This procedure is utilized in an otherwise periodontally healthy area to remove enlarged gingival tissue and supporting bone (ostectomy) to provide an anatomically correct gingival relationship.
D4231 anatomical crown exposure – one to three teeth or tooth bounded spaces per quadrant.
This procedure is utilized in an otherwise periodontal healthy area to remove enlarged gingival tissue and supporting bone (ostectomy) to provide an anatomically correct gingival relationship.
D5211 maxillary partial denture – resin base (including retentive/clasping materials, rests, and teeth)
D5212 Mandibular partial denture – resin base (including retentive/clasping materials, rests, and teeth)
D7283 placement of device to facilitate eruption of impacted tooth
Placement of an attachment on an unerupted tooth, after its exposure, to aid in its eruption. Report the surgical exposure separately using D7280.
4 Deleted Codes
D1515 space maintainer – fixed – bilateral
D1525 space maintainer – removable – bilateral
D5281 removable unilateral partial denture – one piece cast metal (including clasps and teeth)
D9940 occlusal guard by report
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Coordination of Benefits: Review on December 4, 2018.