New, revised and deleted codes and the quick fixes that keep payments moving

Key Takeaways:
  • CDT 2026 introduces new, revised and deleted codes that increase specificity and improve documentation alignment — making timely software updates essential to prevent denials and revenue disruption.
  • New codes for cracked tooth testing, saliva analysis, duplicate dentures, implant debridement and occlusal guard maintenance help dental offices document services more accurately and reduce payer pushback.
  • Deleted and revised codes, especially in restorative and anesthesia categories, are high‑risk denial triggers if not removed or updated in your system — making code cleanup, template refreshes and team documentation coaching critical before Jan. 1.

 

Insurance is part of the daily operating system for most dental practices, yet it’s also one of the easiest places for revenue to leak. A code that’s been revised (or deleted) can turn into denied claims, back-and-forth with payers and staff time spent reworking paperwork instead of helping patients.

That’s why the CDT 2026 updates matter. The American Dental Association (ADA) published a new set of changes, and the theme is clear: more specificity, better documentation alignment and cleaner reporting for services that are already happening in real offices.

The ADA’s summary for CDT 2026 says there are 31 new codes, 14 revised codes, 6 deleted codes and 9 editorial changes. That’s enough movement to cause problems if your software and your team aren’t updated.

  • A New Code for Cracked Tooth Testing

Patients don’t walk in saying, “I need cracked tooth diagnostics.” They show up with symptoms – pain on biting, temperature sensitivity, “something feels off.” CDT 2026 adds a code specifically for comprehensive testing across multiple teeth to locate a crack and rule out look-alike conditions.

This is the kind of appointment that can generate claim questions when documentation is vague. A clearer code creates a clearer story for payers and can reduce the “please send a narrative” loop that slows payment.

  • Saliva Testing Codes are Getting More Defined

CDT 2026 also introduces coding for point-of-care saliva analysis, reflecting how technology has advanced and how more practices are offering in-office testing without sending samples to an outside lab.

If your practice is adding new diagnostic services (or already offering them), coding clarity helps you standardize how you document, present and report those services, especially when insurance coverage varies by plan.

  • Duplicate Denture Codes

CDT 2026 adds codes for duplicate dentures (one for maxillary, one for mandibular) when a patient requests a backup denture. The ADA notes these codes are designed to document duplication workflows (including scanning/3D printing) without repeating every step of initial fabrication.

This is about consistency. When the clinical workflow is legitimate but the coding is improvised, claims get messy. Clear codes help you keep treatment plans, patient communication and claim submission aligned.

  • Duplicate Denture Codes

For implant cases, CDT 2026 includes a code for scaling and debridement when treating an implant with peri-implantitis without surgical flap entry/closure.

Implant maintenance is already a high-visibility category for payers. The more precise your reporting, the fewer surprises later, especially when claims are reviewed.

  • Occlusal Guards Cleaning and Inspection

This one is simple and practical. CDT 2026 introduces a code for cleaning and inspection of an existing occlusal guard, a service many practices do frequently but haven’t had a clean way to document distinctly.

This is a workflow standardization win. Clear documentation supports consistent clinical notes and clearer reporting.

Revisions and Deletions: Where Claims Get Delayed

New codes are exciting. Revisions and deletions are where practices lose time.

A notable restorative revision: D2391

The ADA highlights revisions including D2391 (resin-based composite—one surface, posterior). CDT 2026 removes language that limited its use based on lesion depth, allowing it to be documented and reported consistently regardless of depth/diagnosis.

Deleted codes you will want out of your system on Day 1.

The ADA also calls out six deleted codes. Among them:

  • D1352 (preventive resin restoration in a moderate/high caries risk patient – permanent tooth), tied to the D2391 descriptor change.
  • COVID-19 vaccine administration codes for AstraZeneca and Janssen vaccines (deleted because those vaccines are no longer manufactured/supplied).
  • D9248 (non-intravenous conscious sedation), removed as part of broader anesthesia code restructuring.

Deleted codes aren’t just “outdated.” They’re denial magnets. If a deleted code is still selectable in your software, it’s only a matter of time before it’s used, especially by a newer team member or during a busy day.

What to Do Now: A Simple CDT 2026 Implementation Playbook

You don’t need a deep dive to protect your revenue cycle. You need clean execution.

  1. Update your practice management software for CDT 2026
    If your system can’t delete codes, hide deleted ones so they can’t be selected.
  2. Refresh your “favorites,” templates and clinical note prompts
    Make it easy for your team to document in a way that matches the code, especially for diagnostics and implant-related services.
  3. Run a quick “top codes” check
    Look at your most-used codes and confirm none of them were revised or deleted. This is a fast way to reduce denials without boiling the ocean.
  4. Coach your team on documentation standards
    Coding isn’t the only issue – documentation is the support beam. If your narrative/notes do not clearly support the procedure, you’re inviting follow-up requests.
Questions?

CDT updates happen every year. The dental practices that win treat them like a quick operational sprint: update the system, tighten documentation and keep claims moving.

If you want help turning CDT 2026 changes into a clean workflow – software updates, code clean-up and documentation alignment – contact an Adams Brown dental advisor and we’ll help you get this implemented with minimal disruption.