ADA Unveils CDT 2024: Cigna Dental Adapts to Evolving Dental Codes for Enhanced Patient Care
In a recent development impacting dental care across the United States, the American Dental Association (ADA) has unveiled its updated Codes on Dental Procedures and Nomenclature for 2024 (CDT 2024). Effective from January 1, 2024, these codes will be the standard for all dental procedures, bringing in some noteworthy changes.
The CDT 2024 introduces new codes, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the dental field. Simultaneously, existing codes have undergone revisions to align with the evolving landscape of dental practices. It’s important to note that despite these changes, no procedure codes have been removed this year.
New CDT 2024 Dental Procedure Codes: DPPO and DHMO
The landscape of dental procedures is evolving, and the introduction of new codes reflects the industry’s commitment to staying abreast of technological advancements and evolving healthcare needs. In the latest CDT 2024 Codes update there are some significant changes made to DPPO and DHMO related procedures which are listed below
D0396 – 3D Printing of a 3D Dental Surface Scan:
- Comparable to: Not Applicable (N/A)
- Coverage: Inclusive to the primary 3D dental surface scan.
D1301 – Immunization Counseling:
- Comparable to: Not Applicable (N/A)
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered Submit to medical plan
D2976 – Band Stabilization – Per Tooth:
- Comparable to: Not Applicable (N/A)
- Coverage: Inclusive to the primary restorative procedure.
D2989 – Excavation of a Tooth Resulting in the Determination of Non-Restorability:
- Comparable to: Coverage guidelines are comparable to the guidelines for D3332.
D2991 – Application of Hydroxyapatite Regeneration Medicament – Per Tooth:
- Comparable to: Coverage guidelines are comparable to the guidelines for D2140.
D6089 – Accessing and Retorquing Loose Implant Screw – Per Screw:
- Comparable to: Coverage guidelines are comparable to the guidelines for D6096.
D7284 – Excisional Biopsy of Minor Salivary Glands:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered, submit to the medical plan.
D7939 – Indexing for Osteotomy Using Dynamic Robotic Assisted or Dynamic Navigation:
- Comparable to: Coverage guidelines are comparable to the guidelines for D6190.
D9938 – Fabrication of a Custom Removable Clear Plastic Temporary Aesthetic Appliance:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Coverage may be available and subject to plan exclusions, limitations, and guidelines.
D9939 – Placement of a Custom Removable Clear Plastic Temporary Aesthetic Appliance:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Coverage may be available and subject to plan exclusions, limitations, and guidelines.
D9954 – Fabrication and Delivery of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) Morning Repositioning Device:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered, submit to the medical plan.
D9955 – Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) Titration Visit:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered, submit to the medical plan.
D9956 – Administration of Home Sleep Apnea Test:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered, submit to the medical plan.
D9957 – Screening for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders:
- Comparable to: N/A
- Coverage: Not Standardly Covered, submit to the medical plan.
A noteworthy aspect revealed in the update is the requirement for Total Cigna DPPO dentists to submit radiographic images (X-rays) for certain procedures. The inclusion of radiographic images enhances the diagnostic capabilities of practitioners, aiding in more accurate assessments and treatment planning.
For the streamlined return of radiographic images, dentists are instructed to include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Alternatively, in the era of digital transactions, electronic submission methods are recommended. Dentists can leverage standard EDI 275 attachment transactions through their clearinghouse, National Electronic Attachment (NEA) FastAttach®, or DentalXChange ClaimConnect™ for efficient processing.
Notably, implant-related codes and fixed prosthodontic codes, such as bridge retainers and pontics, come with a specific requirement. Practitioners are urged to submit a complete series of radiographic images or images that comprehensively capture the current condition of the entire arch under treatment. This meticulous approach aligns with the growing emphasis on thorough documentation in dental procedures.
Of particular interest is the impact on dental plans administered by Cigna Dental, a prominent player in the healthcare sector. It’s highlighted that not all CDT Codes are covered uniformly across Cigna Dental’s various plans, adding a layer of complexity for both practitioners and patients. This necessitates a closer examination of the specific coverage of procedures under individual plans to ensure comprehensive dental care.
Cigna Dental’s adherence to these updated codes signifies a commitment to providing quality dental care while aligning with industry standards. Patients covered under Cigna Dental plans can expect a more transparent and standardized approach to their dental treatments, promoting better communication between practitioners and insurance providers.
As the dental community embraces these changes, it underscores the importance of staying informed about evolving practices and codes. Dentists and patients are encouraged to engage with the updated CDT 2024 to ensure a seamless transition to these new standards, ultimately contributing to enhanced dental care experiences across the nation.
