(6116) Understanding the 2026 Anesthesia CDT Codes

Friday, October 24, 2025

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM ET

CE: 1.5

Speaker(s)

Jonathan L. Wong, DMD (he/him/his)

Dentist Anesthesiologist
Coastal Pediatric Dental & Anesthesia
Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States
Adrian J. Carrington, DDS (he/him/his)

Chair, CMC Anesthesia Workgroup
ADA
Sacramento, California, United States

Disclosure(s):

Jonathan L. Wong, DMD: No financial relationships to disclose

Adrian J. Carrington, DDS: No financial relationships to disclose

Explore the structure and updates to the 2026 CDT Anesthesia codes. In this presentation, we will review the latest changes to the nomenclature and code descriptors, along with the rationale behind the 2026 revisions. The course will also discuss how CDT codes align with the American Society of Anesthesiologists’ and the ADA’s definitions of sedation and anesthesia.

Designed for dentists and their staff, this session will explain how to apply these codes in clinical practice and emphasize the importance of understanding that they are procedure codes, not just 'billing codes.' You will also gain insight into the CDT code development and approval process, as well as ways to become involved in ensuring the codes accurately reflect the procedures that promote patients' oral health and

Learning Objectives:

Recognize and understand the upcoming changes to the anesthesia codes in the 2026 CDT code and how they will apply to your practice
Review the importance of the CDT as both a procedure code and a HIPAA code set, addressing the misconception that it is a 'billing code'
Encourage individuals to understand and participate in the CDT development process and effectively navigate the CMC submission process