ADA Code Maintenance Committee approves code for caries detection

DEXIS, LLC, a brand of the KaVo Kerr Group, announced today that the American Dental Association (ADA) meeting notes include reference to a code for caries detection, which is appropriate for use when requesting insurance reimbursement for images taken with DEXIS CariVu. The code will be published later this year and effective January 1, 2017. The meeting notes indicate that the code can be used to cover a “non‐ionizing diagnostic procedure capable of quantifying, monitoring, and recording changes in structure of enamel, dentin, and cementum.” “This announcement allows dentists to code images taken with DEXIS CariVu, a portable caries detection device that uses patented infra-red transillumination to identify carious lesions and cracks,” said Adam Palermo, DEXIS Product Manager. “To be paid by certain insurance companies, dentists must submit insurance claims that report the services provided. The introduction of a code that specifically covers the CariVu technology will enable accurate coding.” The ADA indicates that CDT codes are used for claims processing and completion of electronic health records (EHRs). In addition, any claim submitted on a HIPAA standard electronic dental claim must use dental procedure codes from the version of the CDT code in effect on the date of service. The CDT code is also used on paper dental claims, and the ADA's paper claim form data content reflects the HIPAA electronic standard. DEXIS CariVu is a compact, portable caries detection device that uses patented transillumination technology to support the identification of occlusal, interproximal, and recurrent carious lesions and cracks. Using transillumination technology, and no ionizing radiation, CariVu reveals the tooth’s structure and the actual structure of any carious lesions or cracks. By hugging the tooth and bathing it in safe, near-infrared light, CariVu makes the enamel appear transparent while porous lesions trap and absorb the light. This allows the clinician to see through the tooth, exposing its structure and the actual structure of any carious lesions with very high accuracy. For more information about DEXIS CariVu, visit dexis.com/carivu. For DEXIS indications for use, visit dexis.com/ifu.