Understanding Canadian Dental Codes: CDA Code System Explained

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) code system standardizes dental procedure identification for insurance claims.

Code Structure

• Four-digit procedure code: Identifies specific treatment (e.g., 0110 = amalgam restoration, one surface).
• Two-digit modifier: Adds detail (complexity, materials): -01 simple, -02 moderate, -03 complex; -11 initial, -21 continuing, -31 completion.

Examples

• 0110, 0210, 0330, 0430, 0530 (restorations, root canals)
• 1110, 1210, 1310 (crowns: PFM, all-ceramic, gold)
• 2110, 2210, 2310 (bridges: PFM, all-ceramic, gold)

Use CDA code book or dental software to find correct codes; include modifiers on claim forms. Ask your dentist or insurer for clarification.