Understanding the Difference Between CDT and CPT: A Guide for Dental - Medical Billing Professionals

Difference Between CDT and CPT

Current Dental Terminology (CDT) is a standardized coding system that is used to describe dental procedures, materials, and equipment used in dentistry. It is maintained by the American Dental Association (ADA) and is updated periodically to reflect changes in dental practice. CDT codes are used for insurance billing and record-keeping purposes.

Current Procedure Terminology (CPT) is a standardized coding system that is used to describe medical procedures and services performed by healthcare providers. It is maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA) and is updated annually to reflect changes in medical practice. CPT codes are used for insurance billing and record-keeping purposes.

CDT codes example D4910 and D1110

CPT codes example 99213 and 93000

In summary, CDT is used to describe dental procedures and materials, while CPT is used to describe medical procedures and services. Both systems are used for insurance billing and record-keeping purposes, but they are maintained by different organizations (ADA for CDT and AMA for CPT) and are used in different fields (dentistry for CDT and medicine for CPT).