Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Gingivoplasty, each quadrant (specify)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Gingivoplasty, as denoted by CPT® Code 41872, is a surgical procedure aimed at reshaping the gums to improve their appearance and health. This procedure involves the careful trimming of excess or uneven gum tissue that may be affecting the aesthetics of the smile or contributing to periodontal issues. By removing this excess tissue, gingivoplasty not only enhances the visual symmetry of the gums but also can help in creating a more favorable environment for oral hygiene. The procedure is typically performed in each quadrant of the mouth, allowing for targeted treatment based on the specific needs of the patient. It is important to note that this procedure is often indicated for patients who have overgrown gum tissue due to various factors, including hormonal changes, certain medications, or underlying periodontal disease. The goal of gingivoplasty is to restore a healthy gum contour, which can contribute to overall dental health and improve the patient's confidence in their smile.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Gingivoplasty is indicated for patients presenting with specific conditions related to their gum tissue. The following are the primary indications for performing this procedure:

  • Excess Gum Tissue The presence of excessive gum tissue that may be covering the teeth, leading to an unbalanced appearance.
  • Uneven Gum Contour Irregularities in the gum line that can affect the aesthetics of the smile.
  • Periodontal Disease Patients with a history of periodontal disease may require gingivoplasty to remove diseased tissue and promote better oral hygiene.
  • Hormonal Changes Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy or puberty, can lead to gingival overgrowth, necessitating this procedure.
  • Medication-Induced Overgrowth Certain medications, such as anticonvulsants or calcium channel blockers, can cause gingival hyperplasia, which may require surgical intervention.

2. Procedure

The gingivoplasty procedure involves several key steps to ensure effective and safe treatment. Each step is crucial for achieving the desired outcome while minimizing complications.

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment The procedure begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's oral health, including a detailed examination of the gum tissue and any underlying conditions that may affect the surgery.
  • Step 2: Anesthesia Administration Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. This step is essential for minimizing discomfort and allowing for precise surgical manipulation.
  • Step 3: Tissue Trimming The surgeon carefully trims away the excess or uneven gum tissue using specialized surgical instruments. This step requires precision to maintain the natural contour of the gums and to avoid damaging surrounding tissues.
  • Step 4: Hemostasis After the trimming is completed, the surgeon ensures that any bleeding is controlled and that hemostasis is achieved. This may involve the use of sutures or other techniques to secure the gum tissue in place.
  • Step 5: Post-Operative Instructions Once the procedure is complete, the patient is provided with detailed post-operative care instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the gingivoplasty procedure, patients can expect a recovery period that may involve some swelling and discomfort. It is important for patients to adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by their healthcare provider. This may include recommendations for pain management, dietary modifications, and oral hygiene practices to ensure proper healing. Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the healing process and assess the results of the procedure. Patients should also be advised to avoid strenuous activities and to refrain from using tobacco products, as these can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.

Short Descr GINGIVOPLASTY EACH QUADRANT
Medium Descr GINGIVOPLASTY EACH QUADRANT SPECIFY
Long Descr Gingivoplasty, each quadrant (specify)
Status Code Restricted Coverage
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE 4
CCS Clinical Classification 33 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on nose, mouth and pharynx
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LL Lease/rental (use the 'll' modifier when dme equipment rental is to be applied against the purchase price)
Date
Action
Notes
2025-01-01 Changed Short Description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"