The landscape of dental care is rapidly evolving so staying ahead of technological and procedural enhancements is crucial for practitioners and patients alike. The American Dental Association (ADA) announced CDT 2026, featuring 60 code changes, including 31 additions, all effective January 1st, 2026. This article will touch on several of the CDT 2026 updates and how they allow for standardized documentation of procedures.
The CDT 2026 additions enable precise documentation and billing, streamline insurance processes, and enhance practice efficiency. Here’s a look at a few updates that PlanAm finds noteworthy:
- Point-of-Care Saliva Testing – Technological advancements have eliminated the need for external lab processing, and this new code allows dentists to document in-office saliva analysis, improving efficiency and patient care.
- Testing for Cracked Tooth – This code covers comprehensive testing to identify cracks on multiple teeth and rule out disorders that “mimic the symptoms of a cracked tooth”. Often brought to the dentist’s attention by the patient, the code ensures accurate diagnostic documentation and clear communication.
- Scaling and Debridement for Implant with Peri-Implantitis – This code documents non-surgical treatment of implant-related inflammation, a key indicator of potential implant failure, addressing a growing need in implant care.
As dentistry continues to evolve, CDT 2026 stands as the foundational tool for practitioners navigating the complexities of modern dental care. At PlanAm, we recognize the transformative power of data, with CDT codes playing a vital role in promoting global health through precise dental care documentation. Learn more at ADA.org/CDT.
Sources: https://adanews.ada.org/ada-news/2025/september/new-cdt-codes-you-should-know-for-2026/
