D7876 — Arthroscopy: discectomy (TMJ)
D7876 removes the joint disc arthroscopically.
This is one of 22 closely related temporomandibular joint treatment codes. The treatment is explained in full in the temporomandibular joint treatment guide — this page is about what makes this particular code different.
The rest of this page deals with the specifics: the requirements written into the code, the usual range of fees, the typical benefit outcome, and how to tell it apart from its closest relatives.
Not to be confused with
D7875 — Arthroscopy: synovectomy (TMJ): It is the same procedure with one word changed: synovectomy rather than discectomy.
D7877 — Arthroscopy: debridement (TMJ): It is the same procedure with one word changed: debridement rather than discectomy.
D7874 — Arthroscopy: disc repositioning and stabilization (TMJ): It is the same procedure specified for disc repositioning and stabilization rather than for discectomy.
D7873 — Arthroscopy: lavage and lysis of adhesions (TMJ): It is the same procedure specified for lavage and lysis of adhesions rather than for discectomy.
D7876 sits in a group of 22 codes in total; the remainder are linked at the foot of this page. The safest question to ask is not "what does this cost" but "which code is going on the claim". The first answer changes; the second decides the first.
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 D7876
What does dental code D7876 mean?
The procedure behind the number is arthroscopy: discectomy, TMJ, filed under oral and maxillofacial surgery.
How much does D7876 cost?
Between $2,000–$8,000 in most practices — and that is the figure before any benefit is applied, not what you would pay at the desk.
How do dental plans handle D7876?
Typically, yes — medical / dental — often excluded benefits, 0–50%. What varies between plans is the frequency limit rather than whether the procedure is covered at all.
What is the difference between D7876 and D7875?
D7875 is arthroscopy: synovectomy, TMJ: it is the same procedure with one word changed: synovectomy rather than discectomy. The rest of the procedure is the same, which is why the two get substituted for one another on estimates.
Also known as: TMJ, TMD, jaw joint pain, arthrocentesis, jaw clicking, occlusal orthotic.