D7960 is the CDT code for a frenulectomy, also called a frenectomy or frenotomy, performed as a separate procedure that is not incidental to another procedure. It covers surgically removing or releasing a frenum, such as a tongue-tie or a lip-tie that restricts movement.
Last updated June 2026 · Reviewed by the PracticeAlpha billing team
Use D7960 when surgically removing or releasing a frenum that is causing a functional problem. This includes a tight lingual frenum that restricts tongue movement or a labial frenum that pulls on the gum tissue and contributes to recession or a diastema. The procedure frees or removes the band of tissue.
D7960 applies when the frenulectomy is its own procedure, not a minor part of another surgery. The code description specifies that it is separate and not incidental. When the frenum release is the reason for the visit and the focus of the surgery, D7960 is appropriate.
A frenum release that is incidental to another procedure is not reported separately. If the band is trimmed as a small step within a graft or other surgery, it is bundled into that procedure. In newer CDT, a buccal or labial frenulectomy may be reported with D7961 and a lingual frenulectomy with D7962, so confirm which code the payer expects.
Click any code to see the difference.
The broad frenulectomy code for removing or releasing a frenum as a separate procedure. It applies generally and does not specify the location of the frenum on its own.
In newer CDT, the code for a buccal or labial frenulectomy specifically. It names the cheek-side or lip-side frenum as the treated tissue rather than leaving the location general.
Billing tip: Some payers prefer the location-specific codes D7961 and D7962, while others still accept D7960. Confirm which code the patient plan expects so the claim is not denied for using the general code when a specific one is required.
D7960 is a separate procedure code. When the frenum release is performed as a minor step within another surgery, the payer considers it incidental and bundles it. Report D7960 only when the frenulectomy stands on its own, and make the separate nature clear in the note.
Payers want to see a functional or clinical reason for the release. Restricted tongue movement, feeding or speech difficulty, gum recession, or tissue pull on the gingiva are examples. Without a documented indication, the claim can be denied as cosmetic or not medically necessary.
Some plans exclude frenulectomies or classify them as cosmetic. When the plan does not cover the procedure, the denial is a benefit exclusion. Verify coverage before treatment and tell the patient about out of pocket responsibility in advance.
Newer CDT separates buccal/labial and lingual frenulectomies into D7961 and D7962. If a payer expects a location-specific code and the claim uses the general D7960, it may be denied. Confirm the correct code and include a narrative identifying which frenum was treated.
State which frenum was treated, lingual, labial, or buccal. This supports the code selection and helps the payer confirm whether the general or a location-specific code applies.
Document the clinical reason for the release, such as restricted tongue movement, feeding or speech difficulty, tissue pull, or contribution to recession or a diastema. This establishes medical necessity.
Make clear that the frenulectomy was performed as a separate procedure and was not incidental to another surgery on the same date. This protects the claim from being bundled.
Describe the technique used to remove or release the frenum and the outcome. A clear narrative strengthens the claim and supports the chosen code.
Confirm whether the plan covers frenulectomies and which code it expects. Record coverage details so any patient responsibility is communicated before treatment.
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Learn about our billing servicesD7960 is the CDT code for a frenulectomy, also called a frenectomy or frenotomy, performed as a separate procedure that is not incidental to another procedure. It describes the surgical removal or release of a frenum, such as for a tongue-tie or lip-tie.
Separate procedure means D7960 is reported only when the frenulectomy stands on its own, not when it is a minor part of another surgery. If the frenum release is incidental to a graft or other procedure, it is not separately reported with D7960.
D7960 is the general frenulectomy code. In newer CDT, D7961 describes a buccal or labial frenulectomy and D7962 describes a lingual frenulectomy. D7960 remains the broader frenulectomy code while D7961 and D7962 specify the location.
Common reasons include the procedure being considered incidental to another procedure, missing documentation of medical or functional need, the service being a non-covered cosmetic benefit, and missing or unclear narrative describing the frenum and indication.
Yes. D7960 can be used for releasing a restrictive lingual frenum, often called a tongue-tie, when it is performed as a separate procedure. In newer CDT, a lingual frenulectomy may be reported with D7962, so confirm which code the payer expects.
A narrative is strongly recommended. Document which frenum was treated, the functional or clinical indication such as restricted movement or tissue pull, and that the frenulectomy was a separate procedure. This supports medical necessity and reduces denials.
Search all 206 CDT codes in our dental coding guide.