When is D2952 used?
The D2952 dental code reports a post and core treatment, performed alongside crown placement, where both the post and core components are manufactured indirectly. This CDT code is applicable when a tooth has experienced substantial structural loss and needs both a post (for anchoring the restoration) and a core buildup (for replacing lost tooth material), with these elements created outside the oral cavity (such as in a laboratory), rather than directly chairside. Apply D2952 when existing tooth structure cannot adequately support a crown by itself, and an indirect approach is selected for enhanced durability or accuracy.
D2952 Charting and Clinical Use
Proper documentation is essential for effective reimbursement. Patient records should clearly specify:
The reason post and core treatment is required (such as significant decay, tooth fracture, or prior root canal therapy).
That the post and core were manufactured indirectly (not created directly in the patient's mouth).
Before and after radiographic images showing the tooth's condition and final outcome.
Information about materials utilized and laboratory billing documentation, when relevant.
Typical clinical situations involve root canal treated teeth with limited remaining crown structure, or teeth with extensive restorations that have deteriorated. When the post and core are created directly in the patient's mouth, consider using D2950 alternatively.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
To optimize reimbursement for D2952, implement these recommended practices:
Confirm benefits prior to treatment, since certain plans may exclude or restrict post and core coverage.
Provide comprehensive narratives detailing why an indirect post and core is necessary, citing clinical observations and radiographic evidence.
Include supporting materials (radiographs, clinical photographs, laboratory invoices) with your claim submission.
Understand that certain insurers might combine D2952 with crown treatment or reduce payment to direct post and core rates. Examine explanation of benefits thoroughly and file appeals when justified, emphasizing clinical necessity and CDT code specifications.
Monitor claims through your accounts receivable system and respond quickly to denials or information requests.
How dental practices use D2952
Imagine a patient presenting with an endodontically treated upper bicuspid having under 50% of its original crown structure remaining. The treating dentist decides an indirect cast post and core provides optimal retention and durability. The laboratory creates the post and core assembly, which is subsequently cemented before crown placement. The practice submits D2952 for the post and core procedure along with the corresponding crown code. Documentation includes before and after radiographs, a detailed narrative explaining the tooth's compromised state, and laboratory invoicing. When insurance initially rejects the claim by bundling it with crown treatment, the practice files an appeal citing CDT code specifications and clinical requirements, resulting in successful claim payment.
Common Questions
Can dental code D2952 be used for baby teeth?
D2952 should not be billed for primary (baby) teeth. This procedure code is specifically designed for permanent teeth that have received endodontic treatment and need a custom-fabricated post and core created in a dental laboratory. Baby teeth are seldom restored using posts and cores because of their unique anatomy and limited time remaining in the child's mouth.
Does D2952 include laboratory fees or are they billed separately?
The D2952 fee encompasses both the dentist's clinical work and the laboratory fabrication of the post and core system. Laboratory expenses should not be charged as a separate line item to patients or submitted independently to insurance carriers, as these costs are incorporated into the total procedure fee.
What should a dental office do when insurance companies bundle D2952 with crown procedures and refuse individual reimbursement?
When insurance carriers bundle D2952 with crown treatment and deny individual payment, carefully examine the patient's coverage details and explanation of benefits. The practice may file an appeal including comprehensive documentation that demonstrates why a separate post and core is medically necessary, such as X-rays and detailed clinical records. Since many insurance plans maintain rigid bundling guidelines, patients should be advised of possible additional expenses prior to beginning treatment.