A complete series of x-rays is considered when a combination of 14 to 22 periapical and bitewing images are taken on a single visit.
• Most insurance companies limit the frequency to 36 months, although some do have longer frequencies.
• At any single visit, if the fee for individual periapicals and bitewings taken exceeds the in-network or usual customary reasonable (UCR) fee, the insurance will consider it a full-mouth series and deny payment if a history already exists within the 36-month frequency.
• If the patient has a history of a panoramic image (D0330) on file taken within the exclusion period, a full-mouth series will be denied, and vice versa.
Always check your patients’ benefit histories. Doing so will provide you with a complete breakdown of frequencies and eligibility.
PAST CODING WITH KYLE ARTICLES
D5994—Periodontal medicament carrier with peripheral seal, laboratory processed
D7951 or D7952: Sinus augmentation
For more coding tips, visit DentistryIQ and search for "Coding with Kyle."
