What Are the Common CPT Codes for Dental Procedures?

Accurate medical billing is essential in dentistry to ensure providers receive timely reimbursement and maintain compliance with payer requirements. While dentistry often relies on CDT codes, certain procedures require the use of CPT codes for billing, especially when services overlap with medical treatment. Understanding the appropriate CPT codes for dental procedures helps reduce claim denials and ensures smooth revenue cycle management.

Common CPT Codes for Dental Procedures

Here are some frequently used CPT codes in dental billing:

• 41899 – Unlisted procedure, dentoalveolar structures
• 41874 – Excision of lesion of the alveolar ridge or soft tissue of mouth
• 41870 – Excision of lesion, oral mucosa
• 41872 – Excision of tumor or cyst of alveolar process
• 41875 – Biopsy of alveolar ridge or gingiva
• 41880 – Excision of tumor or cyst, tongue, floor of mouth, or palate

These codes are especially relevant when dental issues overlap with medical necessity, such as oral surgeries, biopsies, or complex lesions requiring pathology review.

Importance of ICD-10 Codes in Dental Billing

Alongside CPT codes, ICD-10 codes are required to justify the diagnosis and medical necessity of the dental procedure. For example:

• K02.9 – Dental caries, unspecified
• K05.6 – Periodontal disease, unspecified
• K08.1 – Loss of teeth due to accident, extraction, or disease
• M26.60 – Temporomandibular joint disorder, unspecified

Using the correct ICD-10 codes ensures claims are supported and reduces the chances of rejection. For detailed guidance, providers often refer to the American Dental Association (ADA) coding resources.

How EZ Settle Solutions Supports Dental Practices

At EZ Settle Solutions, we help dental providers streamline their Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) processes with end-to-end support. Our services include:

• Eligibility & Benefit Verification – Confirming patient coverage before treatment
• Medical Coding & Billing – Applying accurate CPT and ICD-10 codes to avoid denials
• Accounts Receivable & Denial Management – Tracking unpaid claims and resolving rejections efficiently

By outsourcing billing and coding to EZ Settle Solutions, dental practices can reduce administrative burdens, focus on patient care, and maximize revenue collections.

Final Thoughts

CPT codes for dental procedures play a vital role in bridging medical and dental billing. Proper documentation, correct code selection, and pairing with ICD-10 codes are critical for successful reimbursement. Partnering with an expert billing company like EZ Settle Solutions ensures your dental practice operates smoothly and profitably.