CDT codes are a set of medical codes for dental procedures that cover oral health and dentistry. Each procedural code is an alphanumeric code that begins with the letter “D” (the procedural code) and is followed by four numbers (the nomenclature). The sad truth is that most hygienists don't even list the valuable treatment procedures they offer. They ask why they should list these procedures, since the insurance company will not pay for them.
But how will insurance companies know that hygienists provide these services if hygienists don't tell them? Both in-network and out-of-network providers must use CDT codes to bill dental services for third-party payer claims. A data element in the electronic dental claim is the dental procedure code, which must be from the CDT Code, specifically the version that is in effect on the date of service. A common concern for many dental offices is the assignment of codes to inform various procedures for reimbursement purposes. CDT codes also help dentists achieve consistency, consistency and specificity in the accurate documentation of dental treatment in the electronic health record.
Separate CDT codes for documenting a synchronous and asynchronous teledentistry encounter is an out-of-the-box solution that is consistent with the existing code set structure and current entries for professional visits (D9410-D9420), sales tax (D998), and case management (D9991-D999). The number and nature of the annual CDT Code changes vary, just as their relevance to an individual dentist varies, primarily based on their type of practice. The full CDT Code entry, described above, published in the current CDT Manual is used to determine the procedural code for documenting and reporting a service provided to a patient. However, neither HIPAA, ADA policy, nor the CDT Code itself requires an external payer to cover all of the listed dental procedures.
The committee's reasoning was that the location can be recorded in the Place of Service (POS) field in the filing of dental claims (in paper and electronic form). Even if an objectionable use of the Code does not constitute a license violation or is illegal, ADA staff remain available to contact third party payers, attempting to discuss issues and resolve potential conflicts. By having a separate code, companies can now better track how often the procedure was provided. Their national commitments include presentations at the ADA annual meeting; ADHA Center for Lifelong Learning, RDH Under One Roof, the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference and Beyond Oral Health.
Once you have set the cross code, you must add any additional information, such as tooth number, location in the mouth, or exceptions. The second example illustrates why it is important for the dental office to help the patient understand the clinical basis of treatment. As for diagnostic codes, ICD codes can be used in conjunction with CDT codes in claims submitted to dental benefit plans when necessary, but they are always required in claims for dental services submitted to medical benefit plans.
