Understanding Dental Code D7982

When to Use D7982 dental code

The D7982 dental code refers to sialodochoplasty, a surgical procedure involving the repair or reconstruction of a salivary duct. This CDT code is used when a patient requires correction of a salivary duct due to strictures, blockages, trauma, or chronic infections that do not respond to conservative treatment. Dental offices should use D7982 when the clinical documentation clearly supports the need for surgical intervention on a salivary duct, typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist with advanced surgical training.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is essential for successful reimbursement of D7982. The clinical record should include:

• Detailed patient history, including symptoms such as recurrent swelling, pain, or infection related to the salivary gland.
• Diagnostic findings (e.g., sialography, imaging, or clinical examination) that confirm the ductal pathology.
• Conservative treatments attempted and their outcomes (e.g., massage, antibiotics, sialogogues).
• A clear surgical plan describing the sialodochoplasty procedure, including the duct involved and the technique used.
• Postoperative care instructions and follow-up recommendations.

Common clinical scenarios for D7982 include chronic sialadenitis with ductal strictures, traumatic duct injury, or congenital ductal anomalies. Properly documenting the necessity for surgery and the failure of less invasive treatments is crucial for claim approval.

Insurance Billing Tips

Billing for D7982 requires attention to detail and proactive communication with payers. Here are best practices for maximizing reimbursement:

• Preauthorization: Always verify insurance benefits and obtain preauthorization when possible, as many carriers require it for surgical procedures.
• Attach supporting documentation: Include clinical notes, diagnostic imaging, and a narrative explaining the medical necessity of sialodochoplasty with your claim submission.
• Use correct coding: Ensure D7982 is not confused with other oral surgery codes, such as D7981 (excision of salivary gland, by intraoral approach), which covers different procedures.
• Monitor EOBs and AR: Review Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) promptly and track accounts receivable (AR) to identify and resolve underpayments or denials quickly.
• Appeal denials: If a claim is denied, submit a detailed appeal with additional clinical evidence and a letter of medical necessity from the treating provider.

Staying organized and maintaining clear communication with both patients and insurance representatives can greatly improve the likelihood of successful reimbursement for D7982.

Example Case for D7982

Case Example: A 45-year-old patient presents with recurrent swelling and pain in the floor of the mouth. Imaging reveals a stricture in the submandibular duct. Conservative management with hydration and massage fails to resolve the symptoms. The oral surgeon documents the findings, discusses the surgical plan with the patient, and performs a sialodochoplasty to reconstruct the duct. The dental office submits a claim using D7982, including preoperative imaging, clinical notes, and a narrative. The claim is approved after preauthorization, and the patient experiences resolution of symptoms postoperatively.

This example highlights the importance of thorough documentation, accurate coding, and proactive insurance communication when billing for D7982.