Dental D Codes Introduction
Description
Dental D Codes Introduction is an online, self-paced course for outpatient and professional fee coders who need a foundational understanding of dental procedure coding. This course explains the structure and purpose of dental D codes, including how the code set is organized and where commonly reported codes fall within the manual. Coders will review how dental codes are used in dentist offices and hospital outpatient settings, with attention to oral and maxillofacial surgery, restorative procedures, and other frequently reported services. Using real-world examples and case scenarios, the course includes 1 AHIMA CEU and helps coders accurately interpret documentation and assign dental codes with greater confidence and consistency.
Included Lessons:
- What are Dental or "D" Codes?
- Who Uses Dental Codes?
- Components of Dental Procedure Code Entry
- Categories of Service for Dental Code
- Assigning Dental Codes on Hospital Outpatients
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Restorative D2140-D2999
- Endodontics D3110-D3999
- Summary
- Additional Documents
CEUs available for the following credentials:
AHIMA
CCA, CCS, CCS-P, RHIT, RHIA, CDIP, CHDA, CHPS
Key Takeaways
This course will equip coders with several critical takeaways to enhance their medical coding proficiency in Dental D codes. Participants will gain:
- Understanding of Dental Codes: Participants will gain a solid understanding of dental codes, often referred to as "D Codes," and their significance in accurately reporting dental procedures.
- Code Composition: Coders will become proficient in decoding the structure of dental procedure codes, which typically start with the letter "D," and learn how to navigate the Code on Dental Procedures and Nomenclature (CDT Code).
- Appropriate Code Assignment: Coders will be equipped to assign dental codes correctly, based on the specific dental procedures performed. This includes discerning between various categories of dental services.
- Hospital Outpatient Coding: Participants will gain insights into coding dental procedures in a hospital outpatient setting, particularly for surgical procedures that may involve general anesthesia.
- Case Studies: Through practical case studies, coders will apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, enabling them to accurately assign dental codes for different dental procedures.
- CPT vs. D Codes: Coders will understand when to use Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes and when to use dental D codes, especially when certain procedures may have both options.
- Anatomy of Teeth: Coders will learn the anatomical terminology related to teeth and dental surfaces, which is essential for precise code assignment.
- Alveoloplasty: Coders will grasp the concept of alveoloplasty and the associated dental codes, understanding when and why this surgical procedure is performed.
- Restorative Procedures: Participants will become familiar with dental restorative procedures, such as fillings and crowns, and how to assign codes based on tooth surfaces and materials used.
- HIPAA Compliance: Coders will be aware of the importance of HIPAA compliance when using dental codes for claims submitted to third-party payers.
- ADA Resources: Coders will know where to access additional resources from the American Dental Association (ADA) for updates and reference when dealing with dental codes.
Benefits of Taking this Course
- Specialized Expertise in Dental Coding
- Career Advancement
- Improved Accuracy
- Dental Code Resources
- Greater Coding Confidence
FAQs
What will I learn about Dental D-Codes in this introductory course?
This course introduces the structure and purpose of Dental D-Codes and explains how they are used to report dental procedures and services. You’ll learn how D-Codes are organized, what types of services they represent, and how they differ from CPT and ICD-10-CM codes commonly used in medical coding.
How does the course help coders understand when Dental D-Codes are used versus medical codes?
The course explains the situations in which dental procedures are reported using D-Codes and when crossover to medical coding may occur. You’ll gain clarity on how dental services are classified and how proper code selection supports accurate documentation and billing in dental and medical settings.
Will this course improve my understanding of documentation requirements for Dental D-Code reporting?
Yes. The course highlights the documentation elements needed to support Dental D-Code assignment, including procedure type, tooth or area treated, and clinical intent. You’ll learn how clear documentation supports correct code selection and helps reduce errors when reporting dental services.
About Our Medical Coding Courses
HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a flexible, online education platform designed for today’s coders. With a growing catalog of AHIMA and AAPC-approved coding courses, HIAlearn supports both beginners and experienced coders looking to build confidence, accuracy, and CEU credits.
Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS, and are designed for multiple specialties including inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI.
To stay up to date, coders can explore our Coding Updates hub for the latest ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS changes. HIAlearn also supports organizations with group discounts and scalable team access, promoting accuracy, compliance, and continuous professional development across departments.
Disclaimer: This course is not for individual sale. Purchase an annual or monthly subscription below and get access to 200+ courses.
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