D7310 Dental Code: Understanding Alveoloplasty in Conjunction with Extractions -

Dental procedures are categorized using specific codes to ensure accurate billing and treatment documentation. One such code, D7310, refers to the extraction of a single tooth with elevation and forceps removal. This procedure is common in general dentistry and oral surgery, but many patients—and even some dental professionals—may not fully understand its scope, applications, and billing nuances.

This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about the D7310 dental code, including:

Its definition and purpose
When it is used vs. other extraction codes
The step-by-step procedure
Cost and insurance considerations
Potential complications and how to prevent them

Whether you’re a dental professional, a patient preparing for an extraction, or a billing specialist, this article will provide valuable insights.

2. What Is the D7310 Dental Code?

The D7310 dental code is part of the American Dental Association (ADA) Current Dental Terminology (CDT) and is defined as:

“Extraction, erupted tooth or exposed root (elevation and/or forceps removal).”

This means the code applies when a dentist removes a fully erupted tooth or a tooth root that is accessible without surgical intervention.

Key Features of D7310:

✔ Used for simple extractions (not surgical)
✔ Applies to single teeth (multiple extractions require separate codes)
✔ Requires forceps and/or elevators for removal
✔ Does not involve bone removal or flap reflection (those fall under surgical extraction codes like D7210)

3. When Is D7310 Used?

D7310 is typically used in the following scenarios:

Scenario	Applicable? (Yes/No)
Removing a decayed, non-restorable tooth	✅ Yes
Extracting a loose tooth due to periodontal disease	✅ Yes
Removing a fractured tooth above the gumline	✅ Yes
Extracting impacted teeth (fully or partially buried in bone)	❌ No (Requires D7210)
Removing retained roots with bone removal	❌ No (Requires D7250)

Common Reasons for D7310 Extractions:

Severe decay (beyond repair with a filling or crown)
Advanced gum disease (causing tooth mobility)
Trauma (broken teeth that cannot be saved)
Orthodontic reasons (tooth removal for braces)

4. Difference Between D7310 and Similar Codes

Many dental extraction codes exist, and confusion can arise when determining which one applies. Below is a comparison:

Code	Description	When Used
D7310	Simple extraction (forceps/elevator)	Erupted or exposed roots
D7210	Surgical extraction (with flap/bone removal)	Impacted or broken teeth below gumline
D7140	Extraction of erupted tooth without elevator	Very loose teeth (e.g., baby teeth)
D7250	Removal of residual roots	Broken roots requiring surgical access

Key Takeaway:

D7310 = Simple extraction (tooth is visible and removable with standard tools).
D7210 = Surgical extraction (requires cutting gum/bone).

5. Step-by-Step Procedure for D7310

Here’s what happens during a D7310 extraction:

Examination & X-rays
- Dentist assesses tooth position and root structure.
- Confirms extraction is necessary (no viable restoration options).
Anesthesia Administration
- Local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) numbs the area.
Tooth Loosening (Luxation)
- An elevator tool gently rocks the tooth to widen the socket.
Forceps Extraction
- Dentist uses forceps to grasp and remove the tooth.
Socket Cleaning & Aftercare
- Gauze pressure stops bleeding.
- Sutures are rarely needed (unlike surgical extractions).

6. Cost and Insurance Coverage for D7310

The cost of a D7310 extraction varies:

Factor	Price Range
Without Insurance	$150 – $400 per tooth
With Dental Insurance	$50 – $150 (after coverage)
Medicaid/Medicare	Often covered (varies by state)

Insurance Tips:

Verify coverage before the procedure.
Some plans classify D7310 as “basic” (higher coverage) vs. “surgical” (lower coverage).

7. Potential Complications and Prevention

While D7310 is low-risk, complications can occur:

⚠ Dry Socket – Blood clot dislodges, causing pain.
✅ Prevention: Avoid smoking, straws, or aggressive rinsing for 48 hours.

⚠ Infection – Rare, but possible.
✅ Prevention: Follow prescribed antibiotics (if given) and maintain oral hygiene.

⚠ Root Fracture – Small root fragments may remain.
✅ Solution: Minor fragments may not need removal; larger ones require surgical extraction (D7250).

8. Case Studies and Real-World Applications

Case Study 1: Severe Decay

Patient: 45-year-old male with non-restorable molar.
Procedure: D7310 extraction under local anesthesia.
Outcome: Healed in 7 days with no complications.

Case Study 2: Periodontal Disease

Patient: 60-year-old female with loose tooth due to gum disease.
Procedure: D7310 extraction with minimal bleeding.
Outcome: Dentist recommended a dental implant after healing.

9. Conclusion

The D7310 dental code applies to simple tooth extractions using forceps and elevators. It is distinct from surgical extractions (D7210) and is commonly used for decayed, mobile, or fractured teeth. Costs vary, but insurance often covers part of the expense. Proper aftercare minimizes complications like dry socket or infection.

10. FAQs

Q1: Does D7310 hurt?

A: No—local anesthesia ensures a painless procedure. Mild soreness afterward is normal.

D7310 Dental Code: Understanding Alveoloplasty in Conjunction with Extractions