What is Dental Billing & Is It the Same as Medical Billing?

Codes for Medical and Dental Billing

Unlike medical billing and coding, dental coding sends claims using various data. The three main languages used are:

• ICD-9

• HCPCS

• CPT

Instead, dental coding uses current dental terminology (CDT), updated and published by the American Dental Association. The primary distinction between dental coding is CDT and medical.

CDT only permits dental codes specified by hygienists or other dental professionals in conjunction with different CDT code categories. 

Dental code d1999: Unspecified preventive procedure

It is used to document and report the use and cost of additional personal protective equipment (PPE).

Dentists should establish the following standards for documentation and billing:

• All patients must be subject to a common office procedure for recording the additional PPE.

• A process for documenting why all patients should pay the same amount.

• Documenting the specific PPE used for the visit by adding a note to the patient’s file and charging various costs depending on the type of additional PPE utilized.

• All CDT codes that have “by report” in the terminology should have a narrative.

The American Dental Association (ADA), which has always placed the greatest importance on the patient, dentist, and dental team safety, has worked to develop this code.

Dental code d1330: Oral hygiene instructions

The American Dental Association (ADA) publishes the D1330 Dental Code and all other CDT codes (Current Dental Terminology) each year as a reference guide for the Code on Dental Procedures and Nomenclature (CDT Code), which is widely accepted by dentists, dental facilities, and dental insurance providers.

Is Dental Billing the Same as Medical Billing?

Yes, dental billing and medical billing are similar. They both come under the umbrella of practice management, but the process is different. For example, in the dental biller’s job description, there will be times when they need to consult with their dentist. Likewise, a medical biller may be required to read up on treatment plans to ensure accurate coding and billing.

The two share the following characteristics.

• You must know the fundamental principles and how insurance companies accept and process claims in both procedures.

• In both billing processes, you must properly communicate with insurance companies.

• In-depth information on patient demographics is needed.

• In both types of billings, you need information regarding submitting claims, including the proper codes and corresponding with insurance companies.

Difference between Dental Billing and Medical Billing

Dental billing and medical billing are two different things that are important for patient care. Dental billing includes submitting all your practice claims to dental insurance companies and third-party payers.

Dental insurance claims usually involve several processes, including supervision and coding. While medical billing might take extra time, dental insurance claims often require a little more effort because dental office staff members don’t deal with them regularly. 

The difference is that medical billing includes claims for other medical professions, such as medical devices, lab tests, equipment, vaccines, and employee compensation.

Receiving money for medical bills for a dental practice is not simple. Medical insurance claims often involve a few different processes and particular coding.

A dental billing service, in contrast, is used by doctors to handle the paperwork and ensure prompt payment. This means you can focus on your patients instead of dealing with insurance companies, who often contact the office directly to ensure they are billed correctly.

Reliable Dental and Medical Billing Services

If you’re trying to get hold of expert medical billing services, SmartClinix can help in the prospect while lowering your dental rate, skipping AR delays, and increasing your revenue, all for as low as 3.9%. Experienced medical billing teams at SmartClinix offer smart medical billing services for enhanced cash flow. Our teams can manage your revenue cycle completely, from claim submissions to dental management. 

SmartClinix understands your specialty requirements and thus offers specialized services, ensuring elevated cash flow for your practice; follow now to know more and avail of these outstanding services at the minimum cost!