D7983 Dental Code
The D7983 dental code refers to the surgical excision of bone tissue performed in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This procedure is often necessary when abnormal bone growth, cysts, or infections compromise oral health. Unlike simple extractions, D7983 involves the precise removal of bone segments to address pathologies or prepare for restorative treatments like implants.
This guide provides an in-depth exploration of D7983, covering its clinical applications, procedural steps, costs, recovery, and more. Whether you’re a dentist, oral surgeon, or patient, this article will clarify when and why D7983 is used.
2. Understanding the D7983 Procedure
Definition and Purpose
D7983 is classified under surgical periodontal services by the American Dental Association (ADA). It involves:
- Removal of necrotic, infected, or obstructive bone
- Treatment of osteomyelitis, cysts, or tori
- Bone contouring for prosthetic or implant placement
When Is D7983 Needed?
Common scenarios include:
✔ Impacted teeth requiring bone removal
✔ Osteonecrosis (bisphosphonate-related or radiation-induced)
✔ Benign tumors or cysts in the jaw
✔ Bone spurs or exostoses causing pain
3. Clinical Indications for D7983
Common Dental Conditions Requiring Bone Excision
| Condition | Reason for D7983 |
|---|---|
| Odontogenic cysts | Remove cyst-affected bone |
| Osteomyelitis | Excise infected bone |
| Torus mandibularis | Reduce bony growths |
| Pre-prosthetic surgery | Smooth bone for dentures |
Diagnostic Criteria
- Radiographic confirmation (X-rays, CBCT scans)
- Biopsy (if malignancy is suspected)
4. Step-by-Step Surgical Procedure
Preoperative Assessment
- Medical history review
- Antibiotic prophylaxis (if needed)
- Anesthesia options (local, IV sedation, or general)
Surgical Techniques
- Incision & Flap Reflection – Accessing the bone.
- Bone Removal – Using burs, chisels, or lasers.
- Debridement & Irrigation – Cleaning the surgical site.
- Closure – Suturing soft tissue.
Postoperative Care
- Pain management (NSAIDs, opioids if necessary)
- Antibiotics (if infection risk is high)
- Follow-up in 7-10 days
5. Differences Between D7983 and Related Codes
| Code | Description | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| D7983 | Surgical bone excision | Removes pathological bone |
| D7953 | Bone grafting | Adds bone for regeneration |
| D7210 | Extraction with bone removal | Limited to tooth extraction cases |
6. Cost and Insurance Coverage for D7983
- Average Cost: 500−500−2,500 (varies by case complexity)
- Insurance Coverage: Often covered if medically necessary (e.g., infection, cysts)
7. Risks and Complications
- Infection (managed with antibiotics)
- Nerve damage (rare but possible)
- Delayed healing (more common in smokers/diabetics)
8. Recovery and Aftercare
- First 24 hours: Swelling, bleeding control
- 1-2 weeks: Soft diet, no smoking
- Full healing: 4-6 weeks
9. Case Studies
Case 1: A 45-year-old male with mandibular osteomyelitis underwent D7983, followed by antibiotics. Full recovery in 8 weeks.
Case 2: A patient with large mandibular tori had D7983 for better denture fit.
10. FAQs About D7983
Q: Is D7983 painful?
A: No, anesthesia ensures comfort during the procedure.
Q: How long does the surgery take?
A: Typically 30-90 minutes, depending on complexity.
Q: Will insurance cover D7983?
A: If deemed medically necessary, yes. Cosmetic cases may not be covered.
11. Conclusion
The D7983 dental code is essential for removing diseased or obstructive bone tissue. Proper diagnosis, surgical precision, and postoperative care ensure successful outcomes. Patients should consult an oral surgeon to determine if D7983 is needed.
12. Additional Resources
