Ask the Coder (163)

D0274 - bitewings - four radiographic images The vertical bitewing positioning allows an image of up to two molars to be taken, showing part of the periodontal ligaments. The horizontal bitewing positioning allows up to three molars to be viewed with one image. Report D0270 for a single film bitewing, D0272 for two bitewing films, (more)

If the fillings touch then it’s one two surface filling. If they don’t touch/aren’t connected then it’s two one surface fillings. Insurance will typically downgrade it and pay based on a two surface, but you have to always bill what you do.

Today we began treatment on a patient to replace PFM crown with new one. After the old crown and decay was removed (75mins into the appointment) it became clear that the tooth was non restorable and was referred for extraction. What code can we bill for the time spent in the chair? what code to (more)

The only CPT code available at this time is the unlisted code 41899, you should utilize this code along with ICD-9-CM code 520.1 for (Supernumerary teeth).

More specifically where is your biopsy? Most likely, if you are coding dental, you are going to use 20240 (superficial), but I would hate to say without hearing specifically where this biopsy is taking place. 20240: The physician performs an open biopsy on bone to confirm a suspected growth, disease, or infection. With the patient (more)

To my knowledge, there is no way to bill for the lab ( steps involved until denture is complete ) to the insurance. if patient does not show up to pick complete the process, you can bill with a narrative to get some payment ( reimburse for your time and lab fee). I know my (more)

Yes but in many cases the insurance will downgrade it to a D2393 and pay it as that code. I've recently dealt with this with a patient with Guardian insurance.

Segment your X-rays based on those taken in the series. It is important o understand the CARC or RARC on the RA. Unfortunately, some benefit plans consider an FMX the came and a Pano, although they are for different purposes.

It all depends on the carrier. Most carriers will have you bill out the D0145 code until the child is over 3 years of age. However, some want you to bill the initial as D0145 and then the subsequent visits as D0120. You need to check with your utilization review guidelines for your state.

D9940 is an occlusal guard this procedure will require a brief narrative to prove medical necessity. It is a removable dental appliance and is designed to minimize the effects of bruxism and other occlusal factors. D7880 is an orthotic device which also requires a brief narrative to prove medical necessity, however this device is used (more)