When is D2750 used?
The D2750 dental code applies to crown procedures involving porcelain fused to high noble metal materials. This CDT code is appropriate when a tooth needs complete coverage due to significant decay, structural damage, or following endodontic treatment, and a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown is selected as the restoration material. This code does not apply to all-ceramic or full-metal crowns, which have separate billing codes. Always confirm the clinical necessity for crown placement and verify that the chosen material corresponds to the code description before submitting claims.
D2750 Charting and Clinical Use
Thorough documentation is crucial for claim approval and reimbursement. When applying D2750, maintain comprehensive clinical records that detail the crown's necessity (such as large existing restorations, structural compromises, or post-endodontic needs). Supporting materials should include radiographic images showing decay extent or previous work, clinical photographs, and accurate dental charting for claim submission. Typical clinical applications include:
Teeth with deteriorating large amalgam or composite restorations
Teeth exhibiting fractures or cracks affecting structural integrity
Teeth requiring protection following root canal procedures
Maintain clear and readable documentation to minimize claim rejections and establish treatment medical necessity.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
Follow these strategies to optimize reimbursement and reduce processing delays:
Obtain pre-authorization: Send pre-treatment requests to patient insurance carriers including all supporting materials. This establishes coverage details and patient financial responsibility beforehand.
Check frequency restrictions: Most insurance plans limit crown coverage to once every 5–7 years per tooth. Review patient coverage history to prevent frequency-related denials.
Write clear narratives: Include detailed clinical justification in claim narratives and reference all attached supporting documents.
Handle multiple coverage: For patients with dual insurance, ensure proper benefit coordination to optimize reimbursement while avoiding overpayment issues.
Process claim appeals: When claims are rejected, examine the explanation of benefits for denial reasons, compile missing documentation, and file timely appeals with comprehensive explanations and additional evidence.
Proactive insurance verification and complete documentation practices can substantially improve practice accounts receivable and reduce administrative workload.
How dental practices use D2750
Patient scenario: A 52-year-old individual arrives with a broken upper right first molar (tooth #3) containing a large, deteriorating amalgam filling. Following clinical assessment and radiographic examination, the dentist decides a PFM crown is necessary for complete coverage and lasting durability.
Processing steps:
Confirm patient insurance benefits and crown frequency restrictions.
Record clinical observations, including clinical photos and radiographic images.
File pre-authorization request with complete supporting materials.
After approval, complete crown treatment and file claim using D2750, including all documentation and detailed narrative.
Track claim progress, examine explanation of benefits, and promptly handle any rejections or information requests.
This systematic method ensures proper billing practices, optimizes reimbursement outcomes, and maintains efficient revenue cycle management for dental offices.
Common Questions
What qualifies as a high noble metal under D2750 guidelines?
According to the American Dental Association standards, a high noble metal alloy must contain a minimum of 60% noble metals (including gold, platinum, and palladium), with gold comprising at least 40% of the total composition. When billing under D2750, the crown must consist of porcelain bonded to this specific type of high noble metal alloy to satisfy code requirements.
Is D2750 applicable for primary teeth restorations?
The D2750 code is primarily designated for permanent tooth restorations. When treating primary teeth, alternative codes like D2930 for stainless steel crowns are more commonly utilized. It's essential to verify coverage with the patient's dental insurance and consult clinical protocols before finalizing the appropriate code selection.
What is the expected lifespan of a porcelain fused to high noble metal crown?
When maintained with consistent oral hygiene practices and routine dental examinations, a porcelain fused to high noble metal crown typically provides 10-15 years of service, often extending beyond this timeframe. The actual durability varies based on individual factors including oral care habits, occlusal forces, and ongoing preventive maintenance.