99188 application topical fluoride varnish
Also known as: fluoride varnish, topical fluoride, dental prevention
Application of topical fluoride varnish to tooth surfaces for prevention of dental caries and tooth decay in pediatric or high-risk patients.
In Plain Language
protective fluoride coating on teeth
Clinical Context
Used for preventive dental treatment with topical fluoride varnish to reduce cavity risk in children and high-risk patients.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.20 |
| Total RVU | 0.20 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Medicine section codes cover a wide range of non-surgical services. Documentation should include the clinical indication, procedure details, interpretation (if applicable), and any patient-specific findings.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.20, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Medicine codes — 3.9x below the median (0.78). The highest wRVU in this category is 23.92.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 99188?
CPT 99188 (application topical fluoride varnish) is a Medicine code. Application of topical fluoride varnish to tooth surfaces for prevention of dental caries and tooth decay in pediatric or high-risk patients.
Who uses CPT code 99188?
CPT 99188 is used by Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry, Preventive Medicine. Used for preventive dental treatment with topical fluoride varnish to reduce cavity risk in children and high-risk patients.
When is CPT 99188 used?
Used for preventive dental treatment with topical fluoride varnish to reduce cavity risk in children and high-risk patients.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.