CPB Certified Professional Biller Certification Practice Exam

What standard coding set is typically used for dental billing?

1. Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System

2. Current Dental Terminology

3. American Dental Association Codes

4. National Dental Billing Codes

The correct answer is: Current Dental Terminology

The standard coding set typically used for dental billing is the Current Dental Terminology (CDT). CDT codes are specifically developed to provide a uniform language that reflects the procedures performed in dentistry. These codes help ensure that dental services are billed correctly and facilitate consistent communication between dental professionals and insurance providers regarding the services rendered. CDT codes are updated annually by the American Dental Association (ADA), which helps maintain their relevance and accuracy in capturing the nuances of dental practice. This makes them essential for proper documentation and billing within the dental field. Other coding systems, such as the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) or those associated with general medical coding, are not designed specifically for dental procedures and may not cover the unique aspects of dental care. While the American Dental Association does oversee the CDT codes, describing them simply as "American Dental Association Codes" does not accurately specify the correct coding set, which is the CDT. There is no recognized coding set known as National Dental Billing Codes, further emphasizing the relevance of CDT in this context.