Dental Office Administration Flashcards

What coding system is used to identify dental procedures for insurance claims?

Answer: CDT (Current Dental Terminology) codes

CDT codes, maintained by the American Dental Association, are the standardized coding system specifically designed for dental procedures used in insurance claims and record-keeping.

What is the purpose of a dental treatment plan?

Answer: To outline recommended procedures, sequence, and estimated costs for the patient

A treatment plan documents the dentist's recommended procedures in priority order, along with estimated costs and timeframes, allowing the patient to make informed decisions about their care.

What does HIPAA protect in a dental office?

Answer: Patient health information privacy and security

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) establishes national standards for protecting patients' sensitive health information from being disclosed without patient consent or knowledge.

What is a predetermination of benefits?

Answer: A request to an insurance company to determine coverage before treatment begins

A predetermination is submitted to the insurance company before treatment to determine what benefits will be covered and at what percentage, helping the patient understand their financial responsibility.

What is the purpose of a recall system in a dental practice?

Answer: To schedule patients for regular preventive care appointments

A recall system tracks when patients are due for preventive care visits (typically every 6 months) and contacts them to schedule appointments, maintaining continuity of care.

What should be documented in a patient's dental chart after each visit?

Answer: All procedures performed, materials used, medications administered, and patient responses

Complete documentation must include all procedures performed, materials and medications used, vital signs, patient responses, complications, post-operative instructions given, and next appointment plans.