D0270Bitewing, Single Radiographic Image

What This Code Covers

D0270 covers one bitewing radiographic image taken during a single visit. The x-ray captures the crowns and crestal bone levels of both upper and lower teeth in a specific area of the mouth. This code is used when only one targeted bitewing is clinically necessary, not a full series. It is most often used for a focused look at a single region, such as checking a suspicious area between two teeth or monitoring a localized concern.

Billing Guide

Bill this code when:

• Only one bitewing x-ray is taken during the visit
• The dentist needs a targeted image of a specific area, such as one quadrant or a single interproximal contact
• The radiograph is taken to evaluate a localized concern like a potential cavity, open margin, or bone loss in one area
• The image is clinically necessary and documented in the patient's record

Do not bill this code when:

• Two or more bitewing images are taken during the same visit. Use D0272 for two or D0274 for four
• The image taken is a periapical, not a bitewing. Use the appropriate periapical code (D0220 or D0230) instead
• The bitewing is part of a complete series (D0210). Do not unbundle individual images from a full mouth series
• There is no clinical documentation supporting the need for the radiograph

Insurance and Denial Prevention

Key Payer Rules:

• Most plans cover bitewing radiographs once every 6 to 12 months, depending on the patient's age and caries risk
• Some payers bundle D0270 into a D0274 if multiple single bitewings are billed on the same date. Avoid billing multiple D0270 codes when D0272 or D0274 is more appropriate
• Medicaid programs may require prior authorization for radiographs outside of standard frequency limits
• A few payers do not recognize D0270 separately and will only pay for D0272 or D0274 as a set

Common Denials and How to Respond:

• Frequency exceeded - Verify the date of the last bitewing on file. If clinically justified outside the normal interval, submit a narrative explaining the medical necessity (such as monitoring active decay or a failed restoration).
• Bundled into another code - Some payers bundle D0270 into the periodic evaluation or a larger radiograph series. Appeal with documentation showing the bitewing was a separate, clinically necessary image not included in other services billed that day.
• Duplicate service - If D0270 and another bitewing code appear on the same claim, the payer may deny one. Review the claim for accidental duplication and resubmit with the correct single code.