D7852 — Disc repair (TMJ)
D7852 repairs a torn or displaced joint disc rather than removing it.
It is one of 22 codes covering temporomandibular joint treatment. For the procedure itself rather than the code, see the temporomandibular joint treatment guide; for the code, read on.
What the code requires, what it costs, how it is paid, and how to tell it from its neighbours — each in its own section below.
Not to be confused with
D7850 — Surgical discectomy, with/without implant (TMJ): It removes the disc from inside the joint, with or without replacing it with an implant.
D7854 — Synovectomy (TMJ): It removes the inflamed lining of the joint.
D7856 — Myotomy (TMJ-related): It releases or divides a jaw muscle, for spasm or restriction rather than for disease inside the joint.
D7858 — Joint reconstruction (TMJ): It rebuilds the joint, replacing damaged parts with grafts or prosthetic components.
D7852 sits in a group of 22 codes in total; the remainder are linked at the foot of this page. If an estimate lists D7852 and the treatment that follows matches a neighbouring code instead, the office has to resubmit — which delays the payment rather than increasing it.
Every code in this group
These codes describe the same broad procedure and differ in one respect each. Each has its own page with its own fee range and coverage notes.
Questions about D7852
What does dental code D7852 mean?
D7852 is shorthand for disc repair, TMJ — the same five characters every practice and every insurer in the country uses for it.
What should I expect to pay for D7852?
$2,000–$8,000 is the realistic range before benefits. Your own share depends on your plan's percentage, deductible and remaining annual maximum.
Does dental insurance cover D7852?
Yes on most policies, treated as medical / dental — often excluded work at 0–50%. A waiting period on a new policy is the commonest reason it is not.
What is the difference between D7852 and D7850?
D7850 is surgical discectomy, with/without implant, TMJ: it removes the disc from inside the joint, with or without replacing it with an implant. One does not substitute for the other; if both are listed, ask what each appointment is actually for.
Also known as: TMJ, TMD, jaw joint pain, arthrocentesis, jaw clicking, occlusal orthotic.