CDT 2026 Dental Code Changes: Deep Dive into What’s New and What It Means for Your Practice
Published by the American Dental Coders Association
The American Dental Association (ADA) has officially announced the CDT 2026 dental code changes. With 60 total updates—ranging from new codes and revisions to deletions and editorial updates—these changes reflect the evolving needs of modern dental practices. Whether you’re a dental coder, biller, or clinical team member, understanding these updates is critical for clean claims, accurate documentation, and compliance starting January 1, 2026.
🆕 Summary of CDT 2026 Changes
- Total Updates: 60
- 31 New CDT Codes
- 14 Revisions
- 6 Code Deletions
- 9 Editorial Clarifications
- Effective Date: January 1, 2026
- CDT 2026 Book Ships: September 17, 2025
🔍 Key New and Revised Codes in CDT 2026
1. Saliva Testing Codes
- New Code: Point-of-care (POC) saliva testing for diagnostic use in-office or in care facilities.
- Updated Codes: Two existing saliva test codes have been revised to specify lab-based testing.
2. Resin-Based Composite Restorations
- D2391 Revised: Descriptor change removes lesion depth requirement—use for any one-surface posterior composite restoration.
- D1352 Deleted: Preventive resin restoration code removed, as D2391 now covers the procedure fully.
3. Denture and Occlusal Guard Maintenance
- New Codes: Duplication of complete dentures (maxillary and mandibular) without full fabrication steps.
- New Code: Cleaning and inspection of an occlusal guard (adjustments not included).
4. Anesthesia Code Overhaul
A comprehensive restructuring of anesthesia-related codes improves clarity and documentation consistency. Practices should train billing staff to prevent incorrect use of these newly formatted codes.
5. Additional Additions
- Cracked tooth syndrome testing
- Photobiomodulation therapy codes
- Implant maintenance and peri-implantitis management
- Comprehensive periodontal evaluation procedures
📝 Editorial Clarifications
Nine codes across various categories were adjusted for clearer language, terminology updates, and structural consistency.
✅ What This Means for Your Practice
| Area | Impact & Action |
|---|---|
| Saliva Testing | Use the new POC code in-house; revised lab codes apply to outside testing. |
| Resin Composites | Report all one-surface posterior restorations under D2391; eliminate D1352 usage. |
| Dentures & Guards | Use new codes for partial denture duplication and guard maintenance to prevent claim denials. |
| Anesthesia | Train coders on new structure to avoid misreporting and overbilling. |
| Other Clinical Codes | Stay updated on cracked tooth tests, implant therapies, and periodontal evaluations. |
📚 Prepare for CDT 2026 Implementation
- Preorder your CDT 2026 manual and Coding Companion Kit (ships September 2025).
- Schedule training sessions for staff on revised and new codes.
- Update your billing software and EHR code libraries to reflect changes.
- Audit current claims to identify where obsolete or revised codes are used.
🎓 Boost Your Skills with Certification
Ensure you’re ready for 2026 by getting certified:
Join the movement of dental professionals mastering compliance and excellence through ADCA Membership.
Still unsure how to apply these changes? Use Ask-The-Coder to get free expert answers to your dental billing and coding questions!
