42280 Preparation palate mold
Also known as: palate mold prep, prosthetic preparation
Preparation of a custom palatal prosthesis mold or denture base for orthodontic or prosthodontic purposes.
In Plain Language
making a mold for roof of mouth device
Clinical Context
Prosthodontic procedure to create custom denture bases, orthodontic appliances, or prosthetic devices for palatal defects or cleft palate.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.55 |
| Total RVU | 1.55 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.55, this code ranks in the 10th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 42280?
CPT 42280 (Preparation palate mold) is a Surgery code. Preparation of a custom palatal prosthesis mold or denture base for orthodontic or prosthodontic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 42280?
The work RVU for CPT 42280 is 1.55. This code is primarily used by Prosthodontics, Dentistry. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 42280 used?
Prosthodontic procedure to create custom denture bases, orthodontic appliances, or prosthetic devices for palatal defects or cleft palate.
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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.