What’s In and What’s Out in CDT 2026
The CDT 2026 update includes 60 total code changes, highlighted by six deletions that reflect evolving clinical practice and public health realities. Understanding which codes are disappearing and why can help dental teams prepare for claims processing beginning January 1.
The American Dental Association has released Current Dental Terminology (CDT) 2026, and with it comes a notable round of updates designed to clarify reporting and modernize dental procedure coding. In total, the new code set includes 31 additions, 14 revisions, nine editorial actions, and six deletions.
Two of the deleted codes reflect streamlining in restorative documentation. Code D1352 (preventive resin restoration in a moderate to high caries risk patient, permanent tooth) is being removed because its clinical application overlaps with D2391, making separate documentation unnecessary and potentially confusing.
Four additional deletions are tied to COVID-19 vaccine administration: D1705, D1706, D1707, and D1712. These codes are being retired because the AstraZeneca and Janssen vaccines are no longer manufactured or distributed, making the codes obsolete.
The final deletion, D9248 (nonintravenous conscious sedation), is part of a broader restructuring of anesthesia and sedation codes. Rather than leaving a gap, CDT 2026 introduces new, more specific anesthesia codes that better reflect current terminology and reporting needs.
These six codes will no longer be valid after December 31, 2025, meaning practices should update their software, documentation protocols, and team training ahead of the January 1, 2026, effective date. Staying current with CDT changes helps ensure accurate claims submission, compliance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act standards, and fewer administrative headaches in the year ahead. Click here to read more.
