When is D5982 used?
The D5982 dental code applies to the creation of a surgical stent. This code is appropriate when a dental professional or oral surgeon creates a stent to direct surgical procedures, including implant positioning or bone grafting operations. The stent provides accurate placement of implants or other surgical treatments, enhancing results and reducing potential complications. D5982 does not cover diagnostic or radiographic guides—these require different CDT codes. Always verify that the stent serves an intraoperative role in guiding surgery, rather than simply for treatment planning or imaging purposes.
D5982 Charting and Clinical Use
Proper documentation is essential when submitting claims for D5982. Your clinical records must clearly outline:
The planned surgical treatment (such as implant positioning, bone grafting)
The function and structure of the stent
The stent's application during the surgical procedure
Supporting radiographs or treatment planning documentation
Typical clinical applications include:
Directing the angle and location of dental implants
Supporting alveoloplasty or ridge enhancement procedures
Ensuring precise bone graft positioning
Make sure your documentation demonstrates the clinical need for the stent. When another code is more suitable (like for a radiographic guide), apply the appropriate CDT code and reference the relevant code information, such as radiographic surgical guide code.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
Submitting claims for D5982 demands careful attention to prevent rejections and processing delays. Consider these recommended practices:
Prior authorization: File a prior authorization request including supporting clinical records and radiographic images. Most insurance providers need evidence of medical necessity for surgical stents.
Include supporting materials: Provide clinical documentation, treatment plan copies, and images demonstrating the requirement for accurate surgical guidance.
Write clear descriptions: Explain thoroughly why the stent is necessary for the planned treatment in your claim description.
Monitor EOBs: Review Explanation of Benefits statements for rejections or requests for more information. Address these promptly to prevent accounts receivable delays.
Submit appeals when necessary: For denied claims, examine the EOB, collect missing documentation, and file a comprehensive appeal letter citing clinical necessity and CDT code standards.
Maintaining a proactive and detailed billing approach helps optimize reimbursement and keeps your revenue cycle management (RCM) running smoothly.
How dental practices use D5982
Case example: A patient requires two implant placements in the mandible. The surgeon creates a customized surgical stent to direct the exact angulation and positioning of the implants. The clinical documentation describes the patient's oral anatomy, the stent's specifications, and its surgical application. Radiographic images and treatment plan documentation are maintained in the patient file.
Processing steps:
Confirm insurance coverage and policies for surgical stents.
File a prior authorization including clinical records and radiographic documentation.
Following approval, complete the procedure and record the stent's use in the surgical notes.
Submit the claim using D5982, including all supporting materials and a detailed description.
Monitor claim progress, examine the EOB, and handle any additional requests or appeals as required.
This process ensures proper compliance, minimizes claim rejections, and supports maximum reimbursement for surgical stent treatments.
Common Questions
Is D5982 covered under all dental insurance plans?
D5982 is not covered universally across all dental insurance plans. Coverage depends on the specific payer and individual policy terms. Some insurance plans may classify surgical stents as medical devices, requiring coordination with medical insurance coverage, while other plans may completely exclude this service. It's essential to verify benefits and review specific plan guidelines prior to treatment.
Can D5982 be billed alongside implant placement codes?
D5982 can typically be billed together with implant placement codes like D6010. However, each service must be documented separately with clear justification for the surgical stent's necessity. Some insurance payers may bundle these services or require additional supporting documentation, so it's important to review payer-specific policies and submit thorough claims.
How does a surgical stent (D5982) differ from other surgical guides?
A surgical stent under D5982 is a custom-fabricated device created in a laboratory specifically to guide surgical instruments for accurate placement during implant or bone graft procedures. Other surgical guides or templates may be standard stock items or less customized options that don't qualify for D5982 billing. Only custom-made stents requiring detailed treatment planning and specialized fabrication are eligible for this code.