Understanding Dental Code D5982

When to Use D5982 dental code

The D5982 dental code is designated for the fabrication of a surgical stent. This code should be used when a dentist or oral surgeon provides a stent to guide surgical procedures, such as implant placement or bone grafting. The stent ensures precise placement of implants or other surgical interventions, improving outcomes and minimizing complications. D5982 is not for diagnostic or radiographic guides—those have separate CDT codes. Always confirm that the stent is used intraoperatively to guide surgery, not merely for planning or imaging.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is crucial when billing D5982. Your clinical notes should clearly describe:

• The surgical procedure planned (e.g., implant placement, bone grafting)
• The purpose and design of the stent
• How the stent was used during the procedure
• Any relevant radiographs or planning records

Common clinical scenarios include:

• Guiding the angulation and position of dental implants
• Assisting in alveoloplasty or ridge augmentation
• Supporting accurate bone graft placement

Ensure that your documentation matches the clinical necessity for the stent. If another code is more appropriate (such as for a radiographic guide), use the correct CDT code and reference the relevant code article, e.g., radiographic surgical guide code.

Insurance Billing Tips

Billing for D5982 requires attention to detail to avoid denials and delays. Follow these best practices:

• Pre-authorization: Submit a pre-authorization request with supporting clinical documentation and radiographs. Many carriers require proof of medical necessity for surgical stents.
• Attach supporting documents: Include clinical notes, a copy of the treatment plan, and images showing the need for precise surgical guidance.
• Use correct narratives: Clearly explain why the stent is required for the planned procedure in your claim narrative.
• Track EOBs: Monitor Explanation of Benefits statements for denials or requests for additional information. Respond promptly to avoid AR delays.
• Appeal if needed: If a claim is denied, review the EOB, gather any missing documentation, and submit a detailed appeal letter referencing the clinical necessity and CDT code guidelines.

Staying proactive and thorough in your billing process helps maximize reimbursement and keeps your revenue cycle management (RCM) efficient.

Example Case for D5982

Scenario: A patient presents for a two-implant placement in the lower jaw. The surgeon fabricates a custom surgical stent to guide the precise angulation and spacing of the implants. The clinical notes detail the patient’s anatomy, the stent’s design, and its intraoperative use. Radiographs and a copy of the treatment plan are included in the patient’s record.

Billing Steps:

1. Verify insurance benefits and requirements for surgical stents.
2. Submit a pre-authorization with clinical documentation and radiographs.
3. After approval, perform the procedure and document the use of the stent in the operative notes.
4. File the claim using D5982, attaching all supporting documents and a clear narrative.
5. Track the claim status, review the EOB, and address any follow-up requests or appeals as needed.

This workflow ensures compliance, reduces denials, and supports optimal reimbursement for surgical stent procedures.