In the world of restorative dentistry, anterior composites are among the most common procedures. Whether you’re restoring a chipped incisor or rebuilding a large Class IV fracture, you’re likely billing codes D2330, D2331, D2332, or D2335 on a regular basis.

But here’s the issue: many practices undercode these restorations, fail to document properly, or accept unnecessary write-offs, resulting in lost revenue and unintentional free dentistry.

Let’s break down what each code means, when to use it, and how to avoid leaving money on the table.

Anterior Composite Codes: The Basics

CDT CodeDescriptionD2330One surface, anteriorD2331Two surfaces, anteriorD2332Three surfaces, anteriorD2335Four or more surfaces OR involving the incisal angle (Class IV), anterior

These codes are used for tooth-colored restorations on anterior teeth—usually central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines (teeth #6–11 and #22–27).

Key Points for Accurate Coding

1. Code by Surfaces—Not Time or Size

A common mistake is choosing the code based on how long the restoration took or how big it looks. The correct code depends on how many surfaces are actually restored, including:

• Facial

• Lingual

• Mesial

• Distal

• Incisal (if part of the angle is involved)

Important: Use D2335 any time the incisal angle is involved—not just when four surfaces are restored. Even two surfaces that include the incisal edge qualify as D2335.

Undercoding = Free Dentistry

If you do a three-surface restoration that includes the incisal edge, and you bill D2332, you’re losing money—and risking compliance issues if it looks like you’re misrepresenting the procedure.

The Cost of Undercoding

D2335 pays more than D2332—for good reason. It’s more technique-sensitive, takes more time, and often involves esthetic contouring and bite considerations.

Yet many practices:

• Default to D2331 or D2332 because they’re afraid of denial,

• Think patients won’t accept higher out-of-pocket costs,

• Or simply don’t realize the incisal angle qualifies the procedure for D2335.

Solution: Always bill for the work you actually did, and back it up with solid documentation.

Documentation Tips to Protect Your Claims

Insurance companies scrutinize anterior composites—especially D2335—so make sure your clinical notes include:

• Tooth number and surfaces restored,

• Presence of fracture, caries, or previous restoration,

• Whether the incisal angle was involved (for D2335),

• Pre- and post-op photos if available,

• Any material used (composite type, shade, curing method),

• Notes on esthetic shaping or contouring when applicable.

Team Training Tip

Ensure your clinical and front desk team are aligned:

• Clinicians: Accurately chart surfaces restored (don’t guess or round down),

• Admin team: Understand what D2335 means and how to explain it to patients and payers,

• Everyone: Be confident in presenting treatment that reflects the care actually delivered.

Patient Script Example:
“Because your tooth is chipped at the edge and wraps around multiple surfaces, we’ll need to use a code that reflects that complexity. Your insurance may cover part of it, and we’ll go over any estimated portion before we begin.”

In-Network? Know What You Agreed To

If you're in-network with an insurance plan, you must follow their fee schedule—but you’re still entitled to bill the correct code. Don’t downgrade just because a payer might not cover the full amount. Let the plan issue a benefit based on the code you submit—and don’t write off more than you have to.

Final Thoughts

Anterior composites are a bread-and-butter service in most practices—but they can easily become a profit leak if you’re undercoding, misbilling, or not training your team properly.

• Know your codes: D2330–D2335

• Document thoroughly

• Bill honestly and accurately for the care you provide

You deserve to be paid fairly for your work. Avoid the trap of "safe" undercoding—it’s not safe, it’s free dentistry.