Common CDT codes, explained in plain English

D0120 usually means a regular check-up exam performed on an established patient to monitor ongoing oral health, review any changes since the last visit, and check for new concerns

D0140 usually means a focused exam centered on evaluating a specific tooth, area, or dental complaint rather than reviewing the entire mouth

D0150 usually means a thorough head-to-toe oral evaluation typically performed on a new patient or someone returning after a long absence, covering teeth, gums, bite, jaw, and overall oral health

D0210 usually means a complete series of detailed dental images covering all areas of the mouth, including every tooth and surrounding bone, taken in a single session

D0220 usually means one detailed image of a specific tooth and its surrounding root and bone, taken to get a close look at a particular area of concern

D0272 usually means your dentist took two side-view X-ray images where you bite down on a small tab to show the upper and lower back teeth meeting together

D0274 usually means your dentist took four side-view X-ray images — two on each side of your mouth — by having you bite down on small tabs to capture the upper and lower back teeth together

D0277 usually means your dentist took a series of seven or more specially angled X-ray images where the film or sensor was positioned vertically to capture more of the tooth root and surrounding bone than standard bitewing X-rays show

D0330 usually means a single wide-view image that captures all of the teeth, both jaws, the jaw joints, and surrounding bone structures in one sweeping picture

D1110 usually means a standard teeth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist on an adult patient to remove plaque and tartar buildup

D1120 usually means a standard teeth cleaning performed on a child patient, typically by a dental hygienist, to remove soft deposits and light tartar from developing teeth

D1206 usually means a sticky, concentrated fluoride coating that a dental professional paints directly onto teeth to help strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities