If you’ve ever been to a dental office, chances are that you’ve seen dental codes in your patient record or in some other type of documentation. Dental codes or Current Dental Terminology codes (CDT) are used in documenting specific procedures used on a patient. These are useful for insurance purposes, although they’re really designed for maintaining accuracy and consistency in electronic health records.
Because dental procedures continue to evolve, the codes are also routinely updated to keep up. Some will be revised, new ones may be added, and others may become obsolete.
How Dental Codes Affect You
Remember that we mentioned codes are useful in filing for insurance claims? Insurance companies are code-oriented because these codes make it easier to keep track of claims. They also use the coding system as a sort of guide on how much they will disperse in a given year on a code-by-code basis.
So in simple terms, the codes are essential in facilitating accurate reimbursement from insurance plans. These determine whether the treatment done for you will be covered by your insurance and if it is, whether the coverage is full or partial.
Should You Know About the Codes?
Yes and no. There are so many codes that even dental professionals may need to refer to a cheat sheet for quick reference from time to time, especially for codes that aren’t used as often. Remembering them all, if you are not in the dental field, would be pointless.
What can be important is to know what a particular code in your health record means and why that treatment needs to be done. Your dental professional can explain how a particular code corresponds with your treatment to you.
Do remember that dental codes are only for uniformity, and that these are not designed for insurance companies to regulate the care you are provided.
We’re committed to providing you with the best dental care.
Here at White Dental Studio, we provide not only exceptional oral care but also excellent customer service. We are ready to answer any and all concerns you might have regarding treatments, procedures, and even dental insurance claims. Call us at 541-708-6288 to know more.
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