2026 CDT Coding Updates
As the New Year begins, it also brings about important changes to our CDT coding terminology for reporting dental services on claims submitted to third-party payers. As endodontics continues to evolve—clinically and technologically—practitioners are encouraged to proactively review and incorporate the latest CDT updates where appropriate, ensuring our practices remain aligned with dentistry’s current standards and payer expectations.
The ADA CDT 2026 Current Dental Terminology Manual includes 60 code changes across multiple procedure groupings, reflecting real-world care patterns and emerging modalities. While changes within the Endodontics chapter itself are few this year, several new and updated codes directly influence how endodontists document care and submit appropriate codes for payments.
CDT 2026 Changes Applicable for Endodontists
- D0461 — Testing for cracked tooth (NEW)
Includes multiple teeth and contra lateral comparison(s), as indicated. Diagnostic aids may include but are not limited to pressure sensitivity testing, transillumination, staining, etc.
- D2956 – Removal of an indirect restoration on a natural tooth
This code applies to crown removal procedures and does not specify the method or reason for removal; however, it cannot be used for the removal of a temporary or provisional restoration
- D9128
Photobiomodulation therapy for the first 15 minute increment, or any portion thereof.
- D9129
Photobiomodulation therapy for each subsequent 15 minute increment, or any portion thereof.
The updated Endodontists’ Guide to CDT includes all of these changes as well as four new clinical scenarios to assist endodontists in proper coding. These scenarios include removal of an indirect restoration on a natural tooth, patient referral for removal of fractured abutment screw, detailed and extensive endodontic evaluation, and lost composite, protective restoration.