Diagnostic (D0100-D0999)

D0120: Periodic oral evaluation – established patient

Periodic oral evaluations are an assessment carried out on a patient of record to find out if the patient’s dental and medical health condition has changed since the prior evaluation. The dentist will generally perform a visual inspection of the teeth, gums, etc. and consult x-rays as applicable.

D0140: Limited oral evaluation – problem focused

A limited oral examination is also referred to as an emergency exam. It enables a dentist to handle any immediate, serious oral health issues that cannot wait. Common problems include tooth pain, gum swelling or bleeding, broken or chipped teeth, or other types of dental trauma.

D0150: Comprehensive oral evaluation – new or established patient

All hard and soft, intraoral and extraoral tissues are fully evaluated and documented during a comprehensive oral examination. The dentist will acquire past and current dental and medical information and examine the patient’s entire oral cavity and surrounding structures.

D0180: Comprehensive periodontal evaluation – new or established patient

To determine if you have or are at risk for periodontal disease, you must have a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. You and your dentist can better determine whether you require additional treatment if you evaluate your periodontal health annually.

D0210: Intraoral – complete series of radiographic images

Usually taken during the initial visit or follow-up appointments, a full-mouth intraoral series consists of 14 to 21 radiographs. The intraoral approach offers high spatial resolution imaging of the teeth as well as any potential dental and jawbone problems that may be present.

D0220: Intraoral – periapical first radiographic image

A periapical x-ray will reveal one or two teeth in their entirety, from the crown, which is the part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth, to the very tips of the tooth roots, which are located in the jawbone, as well as the supporting bone in the area.

D0251: Extra-oral posterior dental radiographic image

Extraoral x-rays are used instead to check for impacted teeth, track the growth and development of the jaws relative to the teeth, and find any potential issues with the temporomandibular joint or other facial bones.

D0274: Bitewings- four radiographic images

A portion of the mouth’s upper and lower teeth can be seen in detail on bitewing x-rays. Each bitewing is seen from the tooth’s crown to the level of the underlying bone. Bitewing x-rays can identify tooth decay between the teeth and changes in bone density brought on by gum disease.

D0330: Panoramic radiographic image

The complete mouth, including all the teeth in the upper and lower jaws, is seen in a single panoramic radiographic image. This x-ray can see impacted teeth, locate fully and partially erupted teeth, and diagnose tumors. It can also detect the position of developing teeth.

Preventive (D1000-D1999)

D1110: Prophylaxis – adult

The goal of adult prophylaxis is to thoroughly clean teeth to prevent bacterial colonies and buildup that can lead to periodontitis and inflammation in addition to tooth decay. Generally performed by a hygienist, the cleaning process ends with stain removal via polishing the teeth.

D1120: Prophylaxis – child

The dental hygienist carefully removes plaque, calculus and debris from a child’s teeth during a dental prophylaxis. This is accomplished via scaling with specialized instruments and polishing.

D1206: Topical application of fluoride varnish

Topical fluoride treatments involve applying fluoride directly to the teeth. It generates a protective coating called “fluorapatite” by molecularly attaching to the tooth structure. This fluorapatite’s increased resistance to microbial decomposition decreases the risk of tooth decay.

D1351: Sealant – per tooth

A thin plastic covering known as a dental sealant is painted on the biting surfaces of teeth, typically the rear teeth, to stop tooth decay. The sealant forms an immediate link with the tooth’s depressions and grooves, enveloping each tooth’s enamel in protection.

Restorative (D2000-D2999)

D2330-D2394: Tooth colored filling – Resin-based composite

The filling material in tooth-colored resin-based composite fillings is a mix of plastic, glass, or quartz filler. Due to its natural appearance and near-invisibility, it has grown in popularity as a cavity-filling solution. They are a lovely, sturdy solution for small to medium-sized fillings.

D2740: Crown – porcelain/ceramic substrate

Crowns made of porcelain or ceramic have the nicest and most authentic appearance. They complement the teeth around them in terms of size, color, and shape. The ideal choice for restorations of the front teeth. Since no metal is utilized, they are toxic-free and are biocompatible.

D2950: Core buildup, including any pins when required

In a restorative dentistry procedure called a core buildup, a deficient tooth structure is replaced with specialized filler material so that the tooth may properly support a dental crown. Pins might or might not be needed to support and give strength to the core buildup.

Endodontics (D3000-D3999)

D3310-D3330: Endodontic therapy

Endodontic therapy, commonly referred to as root canal treatment, is a series of treatments used to treat the infected pulp of a tooth. Its goal is to eradicate the infection and safeguard the decontaminated tooth from further invading microbes.

D3346-D3348: Retreatment of previous root canal therapy

When the tooth demonstrates insufficient initial root canal treatment, or after a while the tooth becomes re-infected or sensitive once again, root canal retreatment is thought to be the most effective non-surgical option. The root canal retreatment follows the same procedure as the first process.

Endodontics (D3000-D3999)

D3310-D3330: Endodontic therapy

Endodontic therapy, commonly referred to as root canal treatment, is a series of treatments used to treat the infected pulp of a tooth. Its goal is to eradicate the infection and safeguard the decontaminated tooth from further invading microbes.

D3346-D3348: Retreatment of previous root canal therapy

When the tooth demonstrates insufficient initial root canal treatment, or after a while the tooth becomes re-infected or sensitive once again, root canal retreatment is thought to be the most effective non-surgical option. The root canal retreatment follows the same procedure as the first process.

Periodontics (D4000-D4999)

D4341: Periodontal scaling and root planing – four or more teeth per quadrant

Deep cleaning is another name for scaling and root planing in dentistry. The treatment removes tartar that has adhered to your teeth, both above and below the gumline, and disrupts the bacterial biofilm that causes inflammation. If you have periodontal disease, you might require these treatments.

D4342: Periodontal scaling and root planing – one to three teeth per quadrant

One to three teeth per quadrant are treated to periodontal scaling and root planing, a therapeutic procedure that involves instrumenting the teeth’s crown and root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus as well as any rough, calculus-permeated or infected cementum and dentin.

D4910: Periodontal maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a cleaning treatment that provides teeth with periodontal disease involvement a complete cleaning, in order to slow the spread of periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance is a crucial dental procedure and is generally recommended 2-4 times per year.

D4355: Full mouth debridement to enable comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis

A full mouth debridement procedure removes heavy tartar and plaque from one’s teeth and gums. The purpose of a full mouth debridement is to remove excessive deposit from the teeth to enable the dentist to be able to comprehensively evaluate and diagnose.

Prosthodontics (D5000-D5899)

D5110: Complete denture – maxillary

A complete maxillary denture is a removable prosthesis to replace the upper jaw teeth. Dentures, AKA fake teeth, frequently have acrylic resin teeth and gum components that closely mimic real teeth and gums. With a denture, one can restore confidence in your smile, speak, and chew more effectively.

D5120: Complete denture – mandibular

A complete mandibular denture can be used to fully replace the teeth in the lower jaw. Following tooth loss, these dentures allow a person to once again properly eat and converse. A correct complete mandibular denture fitting includes instruction on denture upkeep and general dental health.

D5130: Immediate denture, maxillary

The dental prosthesis known as an immediate maxillary denture, is intended to replace all missing teeth and any accompanying maxillae in the upper jaw. It is put in place immediately following extraction of the final tooth.

D5140: Immediate denture, mandibular

An immediate mandibular denture is made before the teeth are removed and is used immediately after extraction of final tooth. It replaces all of the teeth in the lower jaw. Using this technique, you can immediately regain your smile and oral functions.

D5211: Maxillary partial denture – resin base (including any conventional clasps, rests, and teeth)

The resin maxillary partial denture contains no metal framework to support the artificial teeth, replacing the missing top teeth. This prosthetic has a lovely aesthetic and a fair level of comfort because of the anchoring effect that the mouth’s remaining healthy teeth provide.

D5213: Maxillary partial denture – cast metal framework with resin denture bases (including any conventional clasps; rests and teeth)

A removable partial denture that has a cast metal framework with prosthetic teeth embedded in acrylic resin. Compared to an all acrylic denture, a cast partial denture is stronger, more flexible, and more long-lasting.

D5214: Mandibular partial denture – cast metal framework with resin denture bases (including any conventional clasps; rests and teeth)

A cast metal framework and resin partial denture is the most widely used option for a mandibular partial. It has acrylic teeth supported by a very thin, yet strong, metal base. Metal clasps or precision attachments are used to attach the denture to the remaining natural teeth.

D5863: Overdenture, complete maxillary

A removable dental prosthesis known as a complete maxillary overdenture is affixed to one or more remaining natural teeth and/or dental implants. Implant-supported overdentures are a recommended therapeutic choice when treating edentulous patients since they meet functional and aesthetic requirements.

D5864: Overdenture, partial maxillary

Partial maxillary overdentures are used to replace multiple teeth in the upper jaw, and are supported by dental implants. They also facilitate speaking and eating for the wearer, and can preserve the placement of the remaining teeth in the mouth, which may shift over time.

D5865: Overdenture, complete, mandibular

A sophisticated dental prosthesis known as a complete mandibular overdenture, involves installing a fully removable denture on top of dental implants, healthy teeth, and roots.

D5866: Overdenture, partial mandibular

A partial mandibular overdenture is a dental appliance usually supported by dental implants that have been placed in the lower jaw. It helps maintain the mandibular ridge and allows the patient to chew and speak more naturally.

Implant Services (D6000-D6199)

D6010: Surgical placement of implant body: endosteal implant

A partial mandibular overdenture is a dental appliance usually supported by dental implants that have been placed in the lower jaw. It helps maintain the mandibular ridge and allows the patient to chew and speak more naturally.

D6059: Abutment supported porcelain fused to metal crown (high noble metal)

An “abutment-supported porcelain fused to a metal crown” is kept in place, stabilized, and supported by an abutment on an implant. It is famous for both its amazing looks and durability. The restoration includes a porcelain crown that is soldered to a metal base.

Prosthodontics, fixed (D6200-D6999)

D6240: Pontic – porcelain fused to high noble metal

A pontic is an artificial tooth that is affixed to a dental bridge. The pontic is designed as a single prosthetic and appears to be a natural tooth protruding through the gums. The porcelain fused to metal technique creates an artificial tooth with remarkable compression and tensile strength.

D6750: Implant Crown – porcelain fused to high noble metal

An implant crown made of porcelain fused with metal is a restorative dentistry technique that covers a tooth to restore its size and shape. The metal alloy component gives it strength and allows it to endure chewing pressure. The crown’s porcelain component ensures the best cosmetic outcomes.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (D7000-D7999)

D7111: Extraction, coronal remnants deciduous tooth

A pediatric extraction removes the remaining coronal portion of a deciduous tooth (baby tooth). The removal of these coronal remnants that are being held in place by the soft tissue, usually doesn’t need sutures or postoperative care.

D7250: Surgical removal of residual tooth roots (cutting procedure)

This dental procedure, often known as a surgical root extraction, removes dental roots stuck in the bone beneath the gum line via a surgical incision. This may be necessary after a basic tooth extraction, injury or a tooth that has broken off at the gumline.

D7140: Extraction, erupted tooth or exposed root (elevation and/or forceps removal)

An erupted or visible tooth can be removed during a dental procedure called an “erupted tooth extraction.” The tooth may be divided into segments, and then “rocked” back and forth inside its socket to facilitate removal. Forceps or a dental tool called an “elevator,” are used to do this procedure.

D7210: Surgical removal of erupted tooth requiring removal of bone and/or sectioning of d, and including elevation of mucoperiosteal flap if indicated

When a tooth needs to be extracted surgically, it may be carried out by a dentist, but is usually done by oral surgeon, and involves surgical techniques, such as removing bone, lifting and folding all or part of the gum tissue to reveal the entire tooth, and/or sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces.

D7220-D7240: Removal of impacted tooth

In most cases, this type of extraction is advised if your impacted teeth are causing discomfort, infection, or other dental harm. Dentists frequently advise this oral surgery technique as a preventative strategy to lower the possibility of other future issues.

Orthodontics (D8000-D8999)

D8080: Comprehensive orthodontic treatment of the adolescent dentition

Comprehensive orthodontic treatment started during adolescence to correct misaligned teeth. While a beautiful smile is a side effect of orthodontic treatment, its main goal is to give teeth their appropriate function and biting patterns for long-term health.

Adjunctive General Services (D9000-D9999)

D9110: Palliative (emergency) treatment of dental pain – minor procedure

Treatment for dental pain is typically provided in an emergency because, by definition, it only relieves symptoms and does not address the underlying problem. Unfortunately, tooth discomfort usually doesn’t go away by itself and almost always worsens with time.

D9230: Inhalation of nitrous oxide/anxiolysis, analgesia

The most widely used inhalation anesthetic in dentistry, as well as in ambulatory surgery centers and emergency rooms, is nitrous oxide. It is a great choice for administering minimum to moderate sedation for fearful patients during oral procedures and has impressive tolerability.

D9910: Application of desensitizing medicament

Desensitizing medications are routinely utilized throughout restorative dental operations like crowns or fillings. This treatment can also be applied to exposed root surfaces that are moderately sensitive to temperature changes or external stimulation.

D9940: Occlusal guard, by report

An occlusal guard is sometimes known as a night guard or a bruxism guard. It guards against bruxism, which is the teeth clenching or grinding that occurs most frequently at night.

Invisalign

With the use of Invisalign, teeth can be straightened without metal braces. A series of clear aligners are created to cover your teeth and gradually move them into the right position. They are less noticeable than conventional metal braces and are removable; but need to be worn at all times, unless eating or drinking something other than water.

For more information, please see these valuable resources from the American Dental Association:

Clinical Terms: https://www.ada.org/publications/cdt/glossary-of-dental-clinical-terms

Administrative Terms: https://www.ada.org/publications/cdt/glossary-of-dental-administrative-terms