2025 coding updates every dental office manager should know

A new year has arrived, and with it, new dental coding changes. Staying on top of CDT coding changes is essential to help dental office managers run smooth and compliant practices. Navigating CDT coding updates can be challenging, but preparation is key. By understanding the changes, training your team, and keeping your systems updated, you can ensure a seamless transition into 2025.  

Effective January 1, 2025, these updates impact various aspects of dental practices, from restorative procedures to implant maintenance. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your practice is ready for these changes. 

CDT coding updates for 2025 

D2956: Removal of an indirect restoration on a natural tooth—This new code applies to the removal of an indirect restoration as part of definitive treatment.

D6180: Implant maintenance procedures (full arch fixed hybrid prosthesis not removed)—This code addresses implant maintenance when a full arch fixed hybrid prosthesis is not removed. Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• Covered only if implants are part of the patient’s plan.
• Benefits are available once every 36 months per arch, a frequency interval shared with D6080.
• Not covered within 12 months of the insertion of a fixed hybrid prosthesis.
• Fees are included in the denture service if done within 12 months by the same office.

D6193: Replacement of an implant screw—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• This service is a benefit only when implants are covered. 
• Available once every 24 months.
• If performed within six months of the initial prosthesis placement by the same provider, the fees are included in the prosthesis service.

D7252: Partial extraction for immediate implant placement—This code applies to partial tooth extractions in conjunction with implant placement. Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• Covered only once per tooth in a lifetime.
• If implants are not placed on the same date, this service is not a benefit.

D7259: Nerve dissection—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• This procedure is often part of D7241 (removal of an impacted tooth with unusual surgical complications). When performed with D7241, the fees are included. Otherwise, it is rarely covered.

D8091: Comprehensive orthodontic treatment with orthognathic surgery—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• Benefits are permitted when proper documentation is provided.
• Fees for associated orthodontic procedures (D8010-D8090) cannot be separately billed when performed with D8091.

D8671: Periodic orthodontic treatment visit with orthognathic surgery—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• This code includes fees for periodic visits related to D8091. Separate billing is not permitted for D8670 on the same date. 

D9913: Administration of neuromodulators—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• Though not a benefit of most plans, this service is covered for TMJ treatment or when included in medical coverage. Benefits are limited to once every 60 months. 

D9914: Administration of dermal fillers—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• This cosmetic service is rarely covered but may be included in medical plans with coverage for cosmetic services, limited to one administration every 60 months.

D9959: Unspecified sleep apnea procedure—Depending on the dental plan, limitations and exclusions could apply, such as:

• This service is generally not covered, and the fee is the patient’s responsibility.

Nomenclature and descriptor revisions

Several codes have been updated for clarity or scope.  

• D5520, D5640, and D5650—Revisions to replacement codes for complete and partial dentures.
• D6081—Descriptor adjustments for scaling and debridement around implants with mucositis.
• D2940—Placement of interim restorations now includes specific limitations, such as exclusions for pulp capping procedures.
• D0801 and D0802—Revisions for 3D intraoral surface scans highlight inclusion in definitive procedures. 

What should dental office managers do to prepare their practices?

1. Join our community of 16,000-plus dental office managers to learn more about how your colleagues are handling dental claims when submitting for the new CDT codes.
2. Review and audit codes: Compare your practice’s frequently used codes with the 2025 updates. Ensure compliance and identify potential billing changes.
3. Update software: Confirm your practice management software reflects these changes. Most providers will roll out updates automatically, but it’s good to verify.
4. Train your team: Hold a training session to review new codes, especially for clinical and administrative staff handling documentation and billing.
5. Communicate with insurers: Check with your top insurance providers to understand how they’ll process claims with the updated codes. Some may require additional documentation.
6. Monitor compliance: Pay attention to the integration of these codes into daily workflows and ensure your team is applying them correctly.

Avoid these common mistakes and master dental coding in 2025

• Don’t skip documentation: Many new codes have stringent documentation requirements. Ensure detailed clinical notes accompany claims.
• Avoid fee schedule discrepancies: Align your fees with new and revised codes to avoid billing errors.
• Don’t delay training: Start early to prevent disruptions to patient care and revenue flow.

Remember, accurate coding decreases time spent on claims and increases your practice’s revenue, which keeps your team, dentist, and patients happy.