When is D5710 used?
The D5710 dental code applies when reporting the rebasing of a complete upper denture. This procedure involves replacing the entire denture base material while maintaining the existing occlusal relationships and tooth positioning. This code is suitable when the denture base no longer fits properly due to oral tissue changes, but the denture teeth remain in acceptable condition. It should not be applied for standard relines or minor repairs; rather, it's designated for complete base replacement procedures, usually performed in a dental laboratory.
D5710 Charting and Clinical Use
Accurate record-keeping is crucial for proper claim processing and payment approval. Clinical documentation must clearly show:
Patient's primary concern (such as unstable or loose-fitting denture)
Clinical findings supporting the need for rebasing (such as bone resorption, base fractures, or inadequate fit)
Confirmation that existing denture teeth are functional and don't need replacement
Procedure specifics, including impression-taking and laboratory procedures
Typical situations for D5710 involve patients wearing older dentures who experience discomfort or poor retention, or following substantial tissue modifications after tooth removal. When denture teeth also need replacement, practitioners should consider using the appropriate new complete denture code instead.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
To improve payment success and reduce claim rejections when submitting D5710:
Confirm patient coverage and plan restrictions for major prosthetic treatments prior to starting care.
Provide comprehensive clinical documentation and before-and-after photographs when available.
Attach laboratory receipts to demonstrate the procedure's scope and associated costs.
Use clear terminology in your description to differentiate rebasing from relining or repair work. Clearly state that complete base replacement occurred while retaining original teeth.
Examine the Explanation of Benefits thoroughly. For denied claims, verify documentation accuracy or coverage limits, and submit appeals with additional supporting materials when warranted.
How dental practices use D5710
A 68-year-old patient visits the office complaining of an upper denture that has become unstable and causes discomfort after years of wear. Clinical assessment shows the denture teeth are sound and functional, but the base fits poorly due to jawbone changes. The dentist decides rebasing is the appropriate treatment. Following new impression procedures, the denture goes to the laboratory where technicians replace all base material while keeping the existing teeth. Complete documentation accompanies the claim submission using code D5710, along with detailed notes and laboratory billing. The insurance company processes the claim successfully, and the patient receives a well-fitting, comfortable denture without requiring complete replacement.
Common Questions
Can D5710 be billed together with other procedures on the same denture?
Typically, D5710 should not be billed on the same denture during the same appointment alongside other major prosthetic procedures, such as relining (D5750) or new denture construction. However, minor repair work (such as repairing a small tooth fracture) may occasionally be billed separately when clinically warranted and thoroughly documented. Always verify payer guidelines regarding bundling restrictions or exclusions.
What is the typical timeframe for rebasing a complete maxillary denture?
Rebasing a complete maxillary denture typically requires one to several days, based on the dental laboratory's processing time and the practice's scheduling workflow. Patients will generally be without their denture during this timeframe, so it's essential to manage expectations and discuss temporary options when necessary.
Do most dental insurance plans require preauthorization for D5710?
Preauthorization requirements for D5710 differ among insurance plans. Some carriers mandate preauthorization or benefit predetermination prior to rebasing treatment, while others do not. It's recommended practice to confirm requirements with the patient's insurance carrier before beginning treatment to prevent claim processing delays or rejections.