How to Ensure Accurate CDT Coding in Your Dental Practice

Avoid costly claim denials, streamline reimbursement, and stay compliant with these practical tips.

Dental billing is only as strong as the coding behind it. One wrong CDT (Current Dental Terminology) code can delay payment, trigger denials, or even put your practice at risk for audits. That’s why accurate CDT coding isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your revenue and reputation.

Here’s how to ensure your coding is consistently accurate and up to date.

1. Use the Most Current CDT Code Set

The ADA updates the CDT code set annually—usually with new procedure codes, revisions, and deletions. Using outdated codes is a common reason claims are denied.

✅ What to do:

• Purchase or access the latest CDT manual every year.

• Make sure your practice management software is updated to reflect current codes.

• Provide quick-reference guides or cheat sheets to your team with the most commonly used codes.

  
  

2. Train Your Clinical and Administrative Teams

Even if your front office handles the actual coding, accuracy starts with the clinical team’s documentation. If procedures aren’t clearly charted, your coder is left guessing.

✅ What to do:

• Train hygienists and assistants to chart clearly and consistently.

• Host regular “lunch & learn” sessions to review coding changes and common mistakes.

• Encourage open communication between clinical and administrative staff—especially when a procedure doesn’t seem to fit a standard code.

  
  

3. Avoid “Code Creep” and Assumptions

It can be tempting to use a code that’s “close enough” or seems more likely to get reimbursed. But coding for procedures that weren’t performed—or using a code that upcodes a service—is risky.

✅ What to do:

• Always code based on clinical documentation, not insurance coverage.

• If a procedure doesn’t match a code exactly, consider using D9999 (unspecified) with a narrative.

• Keep notes that clearly justify the code used—especially for anything non-standard.

  
  

4. Audit Your Coding Regularly

Internal coding audits are one of the best ways to catch errors early and ensure compliance.

✅ What to do:

• Spot-check a few charts each month, comparing notes to the submitted codes.

• Look for patterns in denials—often, they signal consistent coding errors.

• Work with a billing professional or coding expert to do a more thorough review at least once a year.

  
  

5. Understand

When to Use Modifiers and Narratives

Some procedures require additional context to get reimbursed—especially with periodontal, prosthodontic, or oral surgery codes.

✅ What to do:

• Learn which payers commonly request narratives, X-rays, or intraoral photos.

• Include relevant details like tooth numbers, surfaces, dates of previous treatment, or medical necessity.

• Keep templates on hand for commonly requested narrative types to save time and ensure consistency.

  
  

6. Partner With a Billing Expert When in Doubt

If CDT coding isn’t your strong suit—or if your team is stretched thin—it may be time to bring in a dental billing expert who specializes in accurate, ethical coding.

✅ What to look for:

• Experience with your specific software (e.g., Dentrix or Dentrix Ascend)

• A track record of reducing denials and increasing reimbursements

• Transparent reporting and clear communication

An experienced biller can clean up your claims, reduce rejections, and give your team peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Accurate CDT coding is more than just entering numbers—it's the bridge between your clinical work and your financial health. A few proactive steps now can lead to faster payments, fewer headaches, and greater confidence in your billing process.

If you're unsure whether your coding is where it should be, or if your A/R is piling up with preventable denials, it might be time to bring in some outside help.

Want to learn how a remote billing specialist can improve your coding accuracy? Let's connect!