Understanding Dental Code D7680

When to Use D7680 dental code

The D7680 dental code is designated for the surgical removal of a foreign body from the facial bones. This CDT code is most commonly used when a patient presents with a foreign object embedded in the maxilla, mandible, or other facial bones, often as a result of trauma or accident. Dental teams should use D7680 only when the procedure involves surgical intervention to extract a non-biological object (such as metal, glass, or dental materials) from the bony structures of the face. It is not appropriate for soft tissue removals or routine extractions—always confirm the clinical necessity before assigning this code.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is critical for successful claims and compliance. When reporting D7680, ensure the patient’s chart includes:

• A detailed clinical narrative describing the foreign body, its location, and the circumstances leading to its presence.
• Diagnostic imaging (such as panoramic X-rays or CBCT scans) that clearly identifies the foreign object within the facial bone.
• Surgical notes outlining the approach, anesthesia used, and any complications encountered during removal.
• Post-operative instructions and follow-up care recommendations.

Common clinical scenarios for D7680 include removal of broken dental instruments, retained root tips, or accidental insertion of foreign materials during dental procedures or trauma events.

Insurance Billing Tips

Billing for D7680 requires careful attention to payer policies and documentation standards. Here are best practices for maximizing claim acceptance:

• Pre-authorization: Always verify if the patient’s dental or medical insurance requires pre-authorization for surgical procedures involving facial bones.
• Attach supporting documents: Include diagnostic images and a thorough clinical narrative with your claim submission. This helps justify medical necessity and reduces the risk of denials.
• Cross-code when appropriate: If the procedure overlaps with medical necessity, consider submitting to the patient’s medical insurance using the appropriate CPT code, in addition to the dental claim.
• Review EOBs: Carefully review Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) for payment accuracy and be prepared to appeal denied claims with additional documentation or clarifications.

Stay updated on payer-specific guidelines, as some insurers may have unique requirements for surgical codes like D7680.

Example Case for D7680

Consider a patient who arrives at your practice after a bicycle accident, complaining of pain in the lower jaw. Radiographic examination reveals a small metal fragment lodged in the mandibular bone. The oral surgeon performs a surgical removal under local anesthesia, documents the procedure thoroughly, and submits a claim using D7680. The claim includes pre-op and post-op X-rays, a detailed narrative, and operative notes. The insurance carrier approves the claim after reviewing the comprehensive documentation, resulting in prompt reimbursement for the practice.

For related procedures, such as removal of a foreign body from soft tissue, refer to the appropriate CDT code for soft tissue removal.