Course Objectives:

1. Describe the ICD-10 diagnostic codes and how they provide documentation of medical necessity for preventive services and products.
2. Review and select the CDT procedure codes associated with preventive services, including pre-diagnostic services, diagnostic imaging, tests and examinations, preventive services and adjunctive general services.
3. Describe how to document preventive products that support caries management.

Dental hygienists are the recognized providers of preventive oral health care. This course reviews the assessments which can be performed during a recare appointment, such as extraoral and intraoral cancer screenings, tests and examinations, imaging, and more which help to support comprehensive treatment planning. It also focuses on the CDT procedure codes associated with these preventive services and how to document them effectively.

In addition, the course introduces ICD-10 diagnostic codes, which are starting to be required by insurance carriers (Box 34 and 34a on claim form) to demonstrate the medical necessity of treatments and products. Understanding these codes is essential for accurate claim submissions and receiving appropriate reimbursements.