Code Tip: D4381
D4381 Localized delivery of antimicrobial agents via a controlled release vehicle into diseased crevicular tissue, per tooth(to suppress pathogenic microbiota)
Reported on a per tooth basis by the site. A flat rate per site such as $55.00 for two sites on the same tooth. The narrative should document the number of sites treated. Narratives should include the history of moderate to severe periodontal disease, history of scaling and root planing that documents that SRP has not been effective. Current periodontal charting to show the pockets are not resolved from SRP. Check policy limitations to see if placing the antimicrobial during SRP is paid or if the plan dictates waiting 6 weeks after SRP. This code is highly variable in how it is paid per plan.
Dental Billing Tips and News for Pros; Edition #142