Ask the Coder (541)

According to the ADA D0470 diagnostic casts are billable anytime diagnostic aides are needed or required for the treatment of specific procedures (i.e. orthodontia, TMJ disorders, Orthognathic Surgery, etc.). This code would be inappropriate for impressions and bite registration if diagnostic casts are not created. Impressions and bite registration would be considered an inclusive part (more)

The appropriate code to utilize with a patient that has a diagnosis of periocoronitis and has the pericornal gingiva excised or removed is D7971. Using an inappropriate code just because it pays is considered abusive and you may be audited and fined. You may try billing the claim to the Medical carrier using 41821 and (more)

Yes, the patient's policy should be primary. There would be only one exception if both carriers abide by the policy that has been in effect the longest then the mother's policy would be primary.

I have not reviewed the book personally, however, PMIC is a great company. I do know that they have backing from the AAOMS for the book so it must hold some validity.

The most appropriate CPT code is the unlisted code 21089, this code requires a narriative to accompany the claim.

In regards to your first question about the practice exams, you need to follow the instructions in your book. Step one: log onto to the website indicated in your book Step two: in the top right corner click on the "Register Now tab" Step three: register yourself with a user name and password As for (more)

D7951 is used for augmentation of the sinus cavity to increase alveolar height for reconstruction of edentulous portions of the maxilla. It includes obtaning the bone or bone substitute. Most common diagnosis code for this procedure would be 525.25 (moderate atrophy of maxilla) or 525.26 Severe atrophy of maxilla. If the doctor was placing an (more)

There are over 50,000 diagnosis codes in the ICD-9-CM book, you must utilize the code that best describes your patient's condition.

This forum is for coding questions only. Please contact technical support for any book or class related issues. support@adcaonline.org

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).