Dental Code for Bridge Pontic
Dental bridges are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, and the pontic is a crucial component of this dental appliance. Understanding the dental codes associated with bridge pontics is essential for both dental professionals and patients. These codes ensure accurate billing, insurance claims, and clear communication between dental practitioners and insurance companies. This article delves into the various dental codes related to bridge pontics, providing a detailed and comprehensive guide that covers implants, plates, crowns, repairs, and more. Whether you’re a dental professional or a patient seeking to understand your treatment better, this article will serve as an invaluable resource.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Implant
Understanding Bridge Pontic Implants
A bridge pontic implant involves the placement of an artificial tooth (pontic) that is supported by dental implants. This method is often preferred for its stability and durability.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6010: Surgical placement of implant body
- D6057: Custom abutment
- D6065: Abutment supported porcelain/ceramic crown
- D6066: Abutment supported cast metal crown
- D6067: Abutment supported porcelain fused to metal crown
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of the implant body.
- Healing Period: Osseointegration of the implant.
- Abutment Placement: Attaching the custom abutment.
- Pontic Placement: Securing the pontic to the abutment.
Table: Dental Codes for Bridge Pontic Implants
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| D6010 | Surgical placement of implant body |
| D6057 | Custom abutment |
| D6065 | Abutment supported porcelain/ceramic crown |
| D6066 | Abutment supported cast metal crown |
| D6067 | Abutment supported porcelain fused to metal crown |
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Plate
Understanding Bridge Pontic Plates
A bridge pontic plate is a removable dental appliance that includes one or more pontics. It is often used as a temporary solution or for patients who are not candidates for fixed bridges.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D5211: Maxillary partial denture – resin base
- D5212: Mandibular partial denture – resin base
- D5213: Maxillary partial denture – cast metal framework with resin denture bases
- D5214: Mandibular partial denture – cast metal framework with resin denture bases
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Impressions: Taking molds of the teeth and gums.
- Fabrication: Creating the pontic plate in the lab.
- Fitting: Adjusting the plate for comfort and function.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Crown
Understanding Bridge Pontic Crowns
A bridge pontic crown is a fixed dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth. It is anchored to adjacent teeth or implants.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6240: Pontic – porcelain fused to high noble metal
- D6241: Pontic – porcelain fused to predominantly base metal
- D6242: Pontic – porcelain fused to noble metal
- D6740: Retainer crown – porcelain/ceramic
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Tooth Preparation: Reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Impressions: Taking molds for the crown and pontic.
- Fabrication: Creating the crown and pontic in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing the crown and pontic in place.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Repair
Understanding Bridge Pontic Repairs
Repairs to a bridge pontic may be necessary due to damage or wear over time. These repairs can range from minor adjustments to complete replacements.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D2510: Inlay – metallic – one surface
- D2520: Inlay – metallic – two surfaces
- D2530: Inlay – metallic – three or more surfaces
- D2542: Onlay – metallic – two surfaces
- D2543: Onlay – metallic – three or more surfaces
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment of the damage.
- Repair Planning: Determining the extent of the repair.
- Fabrication: Creating the necessary components in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing or bonding the repaired components.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Tooth
Understanding Bridge Pontic Teeth
A bridge pontic tooth refers to the artificial tooth that replaces the missing natural tooth. It is a critical component of the dental bridge.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6240: Pontic – porcelain fused to high noble metal
- D6241: Pontic – porcelain fused to predominantly base metal
- D6242: Pontic – porcelain fused to noble metal
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Tooth Preparation: Reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Impressions: Taking molds for the pontic.
- Fabrication: Creating the pontic in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing the pontic in place.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Procedure
Understanding Bridge Pontic Procedures
The bridge pontic procedure involves several steps, from initial consultation to final placement. Each step is crucial for the success of the treatment.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6210: Pontic – cast high noble metal
- D6211: Pontic – cast predominantly base metal
- D6212: Pontic – cast noble metal
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Tooth Preparation: Reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Impressions: Taking molds for the pontic.
- Fabrication: Creating the pontic in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing the pontic in place.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Replacement
Understanding Bridge Pontic Replacements
Replacing a bridge pontic may be necessary due to damage, wear, or failure of the original pontic.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6240: Pontic – porcelain fused to high noble metal
- D6241: Pontic – porcelain fused to predominantly base metal
- D6242: Pontic – porcelain fused to noble metal
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment of the need for replacement.
- Tooth Preparation: Reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Impressions: Taking molds for the new pontic.
- Fabrication: Creating the new pontic in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing the new pontic in place.
Dental Code for Bridge Pontic Gap
Understanding Bridge Pontic Gaps
A bridge pontic gap refers to the space left by a missing tooth that is to be filled by a pontic.
Relevant Dental Codes
- D6210: Pontic – cast high noble metal
- D6211: Pontic – cast predominantly base metal
- D6212: Pontic – cast noble metal
Procedure Overview
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and planning.
- Tooth Preparation: Reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Impressions: Taking molds for the pontic.
- Fabrication: Creating the pontic in the lab.
- Placement: Cementing the pontic in place.
Conclusion
Understanding the dental codes for bridge pontics is essential for accurate billing and effective communication between dental professionals and insurance companies. This comprehensive guide covers various aspects of bridge pontics, including implants, plates, crowns, repairs, and replacements. By familiarizing yourself with these codes, you can ensure a smoother dental experience.
FAQs
Q1: What is a bridge pontic?
A bridge pontic is an artificial tooth used to replace a missing natural tooth in a dental bridge.
Q2: How long does a bridge pontic last?
With proper care, a bridge pontic can last 10-15 years or more.
Q3: Are there different types of bridge pontics?
Yes, there are various types, including those made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of materials.
Q4: Can a bridge pontic be repaired?
Yes, a bridge pontic can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage.
Q5: How much does a bridge pontic cost?
The cost varies depending on the material and complexity of the procedure, typically ranging from 500to500to1,500 per pontic.
Additional Resources
- American Dental Association (ADA): www.ada.org
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): www.nidcr.nih.gov
- Academy of General Dentistry (AGD): www.agd.org
