D6753 Dental Code: Crowns with High Noble Metal

Dental billing codes are essential for accurate treatment documentation and insurance claims. The D6753 code refers to a crown restoration fabricated with high noble metal, typically used for posterior teeth where strength and durability are paramount. Unlike porcelain or zirconia crowns, high noble metal crowns contain a significant percentage of precious metals (gold, platinum, or palladium), offering superior longevity and biocompatibility.

This article provides an in-depth exploration of the D6753 dental code, covering its clinical applications, advantages, procedural steps, and financial aspects. Whether you’re a dental professional, student, or patient, this guide will help you understand why high noble metal crowns remain a trusted choice in restorative dentistry.

2. Understanding Crowns in Dentistry

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore function, shape, and aesthetics. They are commonly used after:

• Large cavities

• Root canal treatments

• Cracked or fractured teeth

• Severe enamel erosion

Crowns can be made from various materials, including:

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)

• Full ceramic (e.g., zirconia, lithium disilicate)

• Base metal alloys (e.g., nickel-chromium)

• High noble metal alloys (gold, platinum, palladium)

The D6753 code specifically applies to crowns where the alloy contains at least 60% noble metals (gold, platinum, palladium), with gold constituting at least 40% of the total composition.

3. What Makes High Noble Metal Crowns Unique?

High noble metal crowns offer several distinct advantages:

A. Exceptional Durability

• Resistant to wear and corrosion

• Last 20+ years with proper care (longer than most alternatives)

B. Biocompatibility

• Minimal risk of allergic reactions

• Gentle on opposing teeth (less abrasive than porcelain)

C. Precision Fit

• Gold alloys are highly malleable, allowing for a tighter marginal seal than other materials.

D. Minimal Tooth Preparation

• Requires less removal of natural tooth structure compared to porcelain crowns.

4. Composition and Properties of High Noble Metal Alloys

The American Dental Association (ADA) defines high noble alloys as containing:

Common High Noble Alloys Used in D6753 Crowns:

• Type III Gold (Soft Gold for Inlays/Onlays)

• Type IV Gold (Hard Gold for Crowns/Bridges)

• Au-Pt-Pd Alloys (Enhanced Strength and Tarnish Resistance)

5. Indications for D6753 Crowns

High noble metal crowns are ideal for:
✔ Molars and premolars (due to high chewing forces)
✔ Patients with metal allergies (since noble metals are hypoallergenic)
✔ Long-term restorations (superior lifespan compared to PFM or ceramic)
✔ Bruxism (teeth grinding) patients (gold’s malleability reduces fracture risk)

6. Contraindications and Limitations

While highly effective, D6753 crowns may not be suitable for:
✖ Anterior teeth (due to unaesthetic metallic appearance)
✖ Patients preferring tooth-colored restorations
✖ Cases with insufficient tooth structure (may require additional buildup)

7. Step-by-Step Procedure for Placing a D6753 Crown

1. Tooth Preparation

   • Removal of decay and shaping the tooth.

2. Impressions

   • Digital scans or molds sent to the dental lab.

3. Temporary Crown Placement

   • Protects the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated.

4. Crown Fabrication

   • Custom-made by a dental technician using high noble alloy.

5. Final Cementation

   • Permanent crown is bonded using dental cement.

8. Comparing D6753 with Other Crown Codes

9. Pros and Cons of High Noble Metal Crowns

Advantages

✅ Longest lifespan among crown materials
✅ Minimal wear on opposing teeth
✅ Superior marginal fit (reduces leakage and decay risk)

Disadvantages

❌ High cost (due to precious metal content)
❌ Metallic appearance (not ideal for visible teeth)

10. Cost and Insurance Considerations

• Average Cost: $1,200–$1,800 per crown

• Insurance Coverage: Many plans cover 50-80% of the cost if medically necessary.

• Dental Discount Plans: Some offer reduced fees for noble metal crowns.

11. Patient FAQs About D6753 Crowns

Q1: Are gold crowns safe?

Yes, high noble metal crowns are biocompatible and rarely cause allergic reactions.

Q2: How long do D6753 crowns last?

With proper care, they can last 20-40 years, far longer than porcelain crowns.

Q3: Can I get a gold crown on a front tooth?

While possible, it’s not common due to aesthetics. Tooth-colored options are preferred.

12. Conclusion

The D6753 dental code represents high noble metal crowns, known for their durability, precision fit, and biocompatibility. Though more expensive than alternatives, their longevity and strength make them a preferred choice for posterior teeth. Patients should consult their dentist to determine if a D6753 crown is the best restorative option for their needs.

13. Additional Resources

• American Dental Association (ADA) Crown Codes

• Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry: Noble Metal Alloys

• FDA Guidelines on Dental Materials