MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Frenectomy Policy Update - January 2022
Alaska Medicaid·AK · Dentistry, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatrics +1 more·Policy Update
Effective date
Oct 1, 2021
We identified it
Jun 21, 2026
Summary
Alaska Medicaid now covers buccal/labial (D7961) and lingual (D7962) frenectomy procedures when medically necessary. Coverage criteria vary by patient age, with different requirements for those under 6 weeks versus older patients, including specific documentation and prior authorization requirements.
Action Required
Immediately: Update billing system to include dental codes D7961 and D7962 for Alaska Medicaid patients. Ensure prior authorization (SA) is obtained for patients 6 weeks and older. Update documentation requirements to include photographs and specific functional limitations criteria. Train providers on age-specific medical necessity criteria and ensure buccal frenectomy is never billed as it's not covered.