D7260 Dental Code: Extraction of Erupted Tooth Requiring Removal of Bone

The D7260 dental procedure code is used to classify the extraction of an erupted tooth requiring the removal of bone and/or sectioning of the tooth. Unlike simple extractions (D7140), this code applies to more complex cases where surgical intervention is necessary.

This procedure is common in cases of:

• Impacted or partially erupted teeth

• Teeth with curved or divergent roots

• Teeth surrounded by dense bone

• Fractured teeth requiring segmentation

Understanding D7260 is crucial for dentists, oral surgeons, and billing specialists to ensure accurate documentation and reimbursement.

2. Understanding Dental Extraction Codes

The American Dental Association (ADA) categorizes extraction codes based on complexity:

Key Takeaway: D7260 is reserved for cases where bone removal or tooth division is necessary, distinguishing it from simpler extractions.

3. When is D7260 Necessary?

Clinical Scenarios Requiring D7260

• Broken Teeth: When a tooth fractures below the gumline, requiring bone removal.

• Hypercementosis: Excessive cementum around roots, complicating extraction.

• Ankylosed Teeth: Fused to the jawbone, preventing easy removal.

• Divergent Roots: Multi-rooted teeth (molars) with splayed roots.

Diagnostic Tools

• Periapical X-rays

• Panoramic radiographs

• CBCT scans (for 3D assessment)

4. Clinical Procedure for D7260

Step-by-Step Surgical Protocol

1. Preoperative Assessment

   • Medical history review (bleeding disorders, bisphosphonates).

   • Radiographic evaluation.

2. Anesthesia Administration

   • Local anesthesia (lidocaine, articaine).

   • Sedation options (nitrous oxide, IV sedation).

3. Flap Elevation

   • A full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap is raised for visibility.

4. Bone Removal (Osteotomy)

   • Use of a surgical handpiece or chisel to remove alveolar bone.

5. Tooth Sectioning (Odontotomy)

   • Dividing the tooth with a fissure bur to facilitate removal.

6. Tooth Extraction

   • Elevators and forceps are used to luxate and remove segments.

7. Socket Debridement & Closure

   • Irrigation with saline, suturing if necessary.

5. Differences Between D7210 and D7260

Why it matters: Misclassifying D7210 instead of D7260 can lead to claim denials due to undercoding.

6. Post-Operative Care & Complications

Recovery Timeline

• First 24 Hours: Bleeding control, ice application.

• 3-7 Days: Soft diet, avoiding straws.

• 2 Weeks: Suture removal (if non-resorbable).

Potential Complications

• Dry socket (alveolar osteitis)

• Nerve injury (paresthesia)

• Infection (antibiotics may be prescribed)

7. Insurance & Billing Considerations

• Medical necessity must be documented (X-rays, clinical notes).

• Preauthorization may be required.

• Reimbursement rates vary (typically $300-$600 per tooth).

8. FAQs on D7260 Dental Code

Q1: Does D7260 require sutures?

A: Often yes, due to flap elevation.

Q2: How long does healing take?

A: 2-4 weeks for soft tissue, 3-6 months for bone remodeling.

Q3: Can D7260 be billed with bone grafting?

A: Yes, D7953 (bone graft) can be added if socket preservation is performed.

9. Conclusion

The D7260 dental code applies to complex extractions requiring bone removal or tooth sectioning. Proper documentation, surgical skill, and adherence to billing protocols ensure successful outcomes. Patients should follow post-op care to minimize complications.

10. Additional Resources

• ADA Code Manual (American Dental Association)

• AAOMS Surgical Guidelines (AAOMS)