When removing or recontouring gingival tissue, the clinical act may seem similar regardless of how or why the tissue is being removed. However, multiple codes exist in the CDT that describe gingival tissue removal. Documenting and reporting these procedures requires a high level of understanding of the code language to ensure proper reimbursement and clinical accuracy.
Dental implants have transformed modern dentistry, offering predictable restoration of function, preservation of alveolar bone, and significant improvements in patient quality of life. As implant placement continues to rise nationwide and is projected to grow steadily in the coming years, the number of patients presenting with peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis has also increased.¹, ² With this growth comes a corresponding need for clinical precision and administrative clarity. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate staging of disease, and correct utilization of implant-specific CDT codes are essential not only for optimal patient outcomes but also for compliant documentation, defensible treatment planning, and successful insurance reporting.
During the ADA’s Code Maintenance Committee (CMC) meeting in March of 2024, it was determined that a substantial reworking of the sedation and anesthesia CDT codes was necessary, prompted by several anesthesia-related submissions for CDT 2025. These changes were discussed during the action request review period and at the actual March 2024 CMC meeting. A working group was established at the direction of the Council on Dental Benefit Programs (CDBP) following a recommendation from the CMC.
Your practice utilizes CDT codes every day to document, report, and bill for the dental services performed. Reporting outdated or deleted codes leads to denied or delayed claims, which means it is essential that your team stays up to date on all annual CDT changes. Codes changes voted on and accepted in March of 2025 become effective on January 1, 2026.Be sure your team meets before year end to review and understand all the code changes enacted.
The 2025 Code Maintenance Committee (CMC) has finalized the Current Dental Terminology (CDT) for 2026. The CMC’s action includes 60 total changes: 31 additions, 14 revisions, 9 editorial changes, and 6 deletions. To meet HIPAA requirements, all dental claims for services performed between January 1 and December 31, 2026, must utilize the appropriate code from CDT 2026.