D6720 Dental Code: Restoration with Crown – Resin with High Noble Metal

Dental billing codes can be complex, but understanding them is crucial for both dental professionals and patients. The D6720 dental code refers to the restoration of a tooth using a crown made of resin with a high noble metal substrate. This type of crown balances durability, aesthetics, and biocompatibility, making it a popular choice for posterior teeth where strength is essential but some aesthetic appeal is still desired.

This article will provide an in-depth exploration of the D6720 code, including its clinical applications, materials, procedure steps, cost considerations, and how it compares to other crown types.

2. Understanding Dental Crowns and Their Importance

Dental crowns are prosthetic restorations that encase a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its function, shape, and appearance. They are commonly used for:

• Severe tooth decay that cannot be fixed with a filling

• Cracked or fractured teeth

• Post-root canal treatment to protect the tooth

• Cosmetic enhancements for discolored or misshapen teeth

Crowns are categorized based on the materials used, such as:

• All-metal (e.g., gold, high noble metal)

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)

• All-ceramic or all-porcelain

• Resin-based crowns

The D6720 code specifically applies to resin crowns with a high noble metal base, combining strength and moderate aesthetics.

3. Breakdown of D6720: What Does It Cover?

The Current Dental Terminology (CDT) defines D6720 as:

“Crown – resin with high noble metal”

This means:

• Substructure: A high noble metal alloy (containing at least 60% noble metals, with at least 40% gold)

• Outer layer: A resin (plastic-based) material that mimics natural tooth appearance

Key Features of D6720 Crowns

4. Materials Used in D6720 Crowns: High Noble Metal and Resin

High Noble Metal Alloy

• Contains ≥ 60% noble metals (gold, platinum, palladium)

• Highly corrosion-resistant and biocompatible

• Provides excellent strength for molars and premolars

Resin Overlay

• Made from composite resin or acrylic

• Can be color-matched to adjacent teeth

• Less wear-resistant than porcelain but more affordable

Advantages of This Combination

✔ Durability – Metal provides structural integrity
✔ Moderate aesthetics – Better than full metal but not as natural as ceramic
✔ Reduced cost – Cheaper than all-ceramic crowns

5. When Is D6720 Recommended? Clinical Indications

Dentists may recommend a D6720 crown for:

• Posterior teeth (molars/premolars) needing strength

• Patients with metal allergies (high noble metals are hypoallergenic)

• Cases where some aesthetics are desired but cost is a concern

Contraindications

✖ Anterior teeth (front teeth) – Aesthetics are not ideal
✖ Patients wanting all-white crowns – Resin may stain over time

6. Step-by-Step Procedure for D6720 Restoration

1. Diagnosis & Preparation

   • X-rays and impressions are taken.

   • Tooth is reshaped to fit the crown.

2. Temporary Crown Placement

   • A temporary resin crown is placed while the permanent one is fabricated.

3. Lab Fabrication

   • A dental lab crafts the high noble metal base and resin overlay.

4. Final Fitting & Cementation

   • The permanent crown is adjusted and cemented into place.

7. Comparing D6720 with Other Crown Codes

8. Cost and Insurance Coverage for D6720

• Average Cost: $900–$1,500 per crown

• Insurance Coverage: Most plans cover 50-80% after deductible

• Factors Affecting Cost:

  • Geographic location

  • Dentist’s experience

  • Lab fees

9. Pros and Cons of Resin with High Noble Metal Crowns

Pros

✅ Stronger than all-resin crowns
✅ More affordable than porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
✅ Biocompatible and long-lasting

Cons

❌ Less aesthetic than all-ceramic crowns
❌ Resin may wear down or stain over time

10. Common Patient Questions and Concerns

• “Will the metal show?” – Only at the gumline in some cases.

• “How long will it last?” – 10-15 years with proper care.

• “Is it better than zirconia?” – Zirconia is more aesthetic but more expensive.

11. FAQs About D6720

Q1: Is D6720 crown metal-free?

No, it has a high noble metal base with a resin overlay.

Q2: Can D6720 be used for front teeth?

Not ideal—consider all-ceramic (D2740) for better aesthetics.

Q3: Does insurance cover D6720?

Most plans cover it partially as a “major restoration.”

12. Conclusion

The D6720 dental code represents a durable and moderately aesthetic crown option, combining a high noble metal base with a resin overlay. It’s ideal for posterior teeth where strength is key, offering a balance between cost, function, and appearance. Patients should consult their dentist to determine if this is the best choice for their dental needs.

13. Additional Resources

• American Dental Association (ADA) CDT Codes

• Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry – Crown Materials Study

• Patient Guide to Dental Crowns