D6920 Dental Code: Crown Repair with Prefabricated Post and Core
Dental codes are essential for accurate billing and treatment documentation. Among these, D6920 stands out as a critical procedure for restoring severely damaged teeth. This code refers to “crown repair using a prefabricated post and core”, a common restorative technique in endodontically treated teeth.
Why is D6920 important? Many teeth that undergo root canal treatment lose significant structure, requiring additional support before crown placement. A prefabricated post provides stability, while the core rebuilds the tooth’s foundation. This guide explores everything about D6920 dental code—from its clinical applications to procedural steps, cost factors, and future advancements.
2. Understanding the D6920 Dental Code
Definition and Purpose
The D6920 code is defined by the American Dental Association (ADA) as:
“A procedure involving the placement of a prefabricated post into the root canal of an endodontically treated tooth, followed by a core buildup to support a crown.”
Unlike custom cast posts (D6950), prefabricated posts are pre-made, reducing chairside time and cost.
When Is D6920 Used?
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After root canal treatment when minimal coronal structure remains.
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For anterior and posterior teeth needing extra retention.
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When cost-efficiency is a priority compared to custom posts.
3. Components of D6920: Prefabricated Post and Core
Types of Prefabricated Posts
| Type | Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Posts | Stainless Steel, Titanium | High strength, durable | May cause root fractures |
| Fiber Posts | Glass or Carbon Fiber | Flexible, tooth-like elasticity | Less retention in short roots |
| Zirconia Posts | Ceramic (Zirconium Oxide) | Aesthetic, biocompatible | Brittle, difficult to remove |
Materials Used in Prefabricated Posts
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Metal Posts: Traditional but may corrode over time.
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Fiber Posts: Popular due to shock-absorbing properties.
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Ceramic Posts: Best for aesthetic cases but less common.
4. Clinical Applications of D6920
Cases Suitable for D6920
✔ Teeth with minimal remaining structure.
✔ Non-vital teeth requiring full-coverage crowns.
✔ Patients needing quick, cost-effective solutions.
Contraindications
✖ Severely curved roots (difficult post placement).
✖ Insufficient root length (risk of fracture).
✖ Active periodontal disease (compromised support).
5. Step-by-Step Procedure for D6920
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
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Assess tooth integrity via X-rays and clinical exam.
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Determine if enough dentin remains for post retention.
Tooth Preparation
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Remove gutta-percha from the canal, leaving 4-5mm apical seal.
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Prepare post space using calibrated drills.
Post Placement and Core Build-Up
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Cement the post (resin or glass ionomer).
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Build up core with composite or amalgam.
Crown Cementation
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After core sets, prepare the tooth for crown.
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Take impressions or use CAD/CAM for fabrication.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of D6920
Benefits
✅ Faster than custom posts (single-visit procedure).
✅ Cost-effective for patients and dentists.
✅ Good success rates in properly selected cases.
Limitations
❌ Less customization than cast posts.
❌ Risk of root fracture if improperly placed.
7. Comparing D6920 with Other Dental Codes
| Code | Procedure | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| D6920 | Prefabricated Post & Core | Quick, affordable | Less retention in weak teeth |
| D6950 | Custom Cast Post & Core | Better fit, stronger | Expensive, multiple visits |
| D2950 | Core Buildup Only | No post needed | Limited to teeth with enough structure |
8. Cost and Insurance Considerations
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Average Cost: $300 – $600 per tooth.
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Insurance Coverage: Often covered at 50-80% under major restorative benefits.
9. Common Challenges and Troubleshooting
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Post Debonding: Ensure proper cementation technique.
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Root Fracture: Avoid excessive post diameter.
10. Case Studies
Case 1: A 45-year-old patient with a fractured premolar restored successfully with a fiber post (D6920).
Case 2: A metal post failure due to improper length selection.
11. Future Trends
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Bioactive posts promoting dentin regeneration.
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3D-printed custom posts for better fit.
12. Conclusion
The D6920 dental code is a vital restorative procedure for teeth needing post-and-core support. It offers a balance between efficiency, cost, and functionality. Proper case selection and technique are crucial for long-term success.
13. FAQs
Q1: Is D6920 covered by insurance?
Yes, most plans cover it under major restorative benefits.
Q2: How long does a prefabricated post last?
With proper care, 10-15 years or more.
Q3: Can D6920 be used on front teeth?
Yes, especially with aesthetic fiber posts.
