When is D2720 used?
The D2720 dental code applies when placing a crown constructed from resin with high noble metal materials. This code is suitable when a tooth needs extensive restoration due to caries, fractures, or structural damage, requiring full-coverage restoration to regain proper function and appearance. D2720 should only be applied when clinical conditions warrant crown placement rather than simpler treatments like fillings or onlays. Correct application of this code helps ensure proper reimbursement and adherence to insurance requirements.
D2720 Charting and Clinical Use
Thorough documentation is vital when submitting claims for D2720. Clinical records should contain:
Initial radiographs demonstrating damage extent or decay severity
Complete narrative explaining crown necessity (such as fractures, large failing restorations, or endodontically treated teeth)
Intraoral images when available to justify full coverage treatment
Documentation of existing fillings and decay patterns
Typical clinical situations for D2720 include:
Back teeth with significant decay compromising cusp integrity
Teeth following endodontic treatment requiring structural support
Broken teeth where conventional fillings cannot provide sufficient durability
Billing and Insurance Considerations
To improve claim approval rates and reduce rejections for D2720, implement these strategies:
Check benefits beforehand: Confirm patient eligibility and crown frequency restrictions with the insurance provider.
Provide thorough documentation: Include initial radiographs, clinical photos, and detailed explanations for crown necessity.
Select appropriate CDT codes: Verify D2720 matches the actual materials used. For different materials, choose the proper code, like D2750 for porcelain fused to high noble metal crowns.
Monitor benefit statements: Review insurance responses quickly to catch underpayments or denials and begin appeals when necessary.
Challenge denials with evidence: When claims are rejected, provide additional documentation and detailed appeal letters explaining treatment necessity.
How dental practices use D2720
Clinical Example: A 55-year-old patient arrives with a cracked lower molar (tooth #30) containing a large, deteriorating amalgam filling. X-rays show inadequate remaining tooth structure for another filling. The dentist decides full-coverage restoration is necessary and chooses a resin with high noble metal crown for durability and aesthetics. The practice submits D2720 with initial radiographs, clinical photographs, and documentation describing the fracture and restoration background. The insurance approves the claim, allowing the patient to receive appropriate treatment with smooth reimbursement processing.
Following these documentation and billing practices helps dental offices properly apply D2720, minimize claim rejections, and deliver quality patient treatment.
Common Questions
What materials qualify as 'high noble metal' for D2720 dental crowns?
High noble metal dental crowns contain alloys with a minimum of 60% noble metals, including gold, platinum, and palladium, with gold comprising at least 40% of the composition. These premium materials are selected for their exceptional durability, excellent biocompatibility, and superior corrosion resistance, making them an optimal choice for reliable, long-term dental restorations.
Which patients should avoid D2720 crown treatment?
D2720 crowns may not be appropriate for patients who have documented metal allergies, those with specific cosmetic requirements for highly visible anterior teeth, or individuals with budgetary limitations since high noble metal crowns typically involve higher costs. Dentists must thoroughly assess patient medical history, aesthetic expectations, and individual clinical requirements when considering this treatment option.
What is the expected lifespan of a D2720 resin with high noble metal crown versus other crown types?
Resin with high noble metal crowns typically demonstrate exceptional durability, commonly lasting 10-15 years or longer when maintained with appropriate oral hygiene and regular dental care. Their longevity often matches or exceeds that of all-ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal alternatives, primarily due to the superior strength and structural stability provided by the high noble metal foundation.