When is D5711 used?
The D5711 dental code applies to rebasing procedures for complete lower jaw dentures. This process involves replacing all the acrylic base material while keeping the original denture teeth intact. Dentists recommend this treatment when the denture foundation becomes damaged, fractured, or poorly fitting, yet the teeth remain functional. Typical situations include substantial changes in oral tissues, extended use causing wear, or base damage that simple relining cannot address.
D5711 Charting and Clinical Use
Accurate record-keeping is crucial for claim processing and regulatory compliance. When using D5711, patient files should contain:
Comprehensive notes explaining the existing denture's condition and rebasing rationale (such as foundation cracks, fitting issues, or tissue modifications).
Before and after photographs when available to demonstrate treatment necessity.
Records clearly stating that only the foundation requires replacement, leaving teeth unchanged.
Original denture placement date and history of previous adjustments or repairs.
Typical clinical situations involve patients whose dentures show foundation cracks but maintain good tooth condition, or individuals experiencing significant lower jaw bone changes affecting denture stability while teeth remain usable.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
To improve payment success and reduce claim rejections for D5711:
Check coverage details: Confirm rebasing benefits, usage limits, and waiting period requirements with insurance providers.
Provide supporting materials: Include clinical documentation, photographs, and explanations for choosing rebasing over new dentures or simple adjustments (refer to D5751 for adjustment procedures).
Document initial denture date: Insurance companies often need original placement dates for coverage determination.
Handle claim denials: Review denial explanations and submit appeals with additional evidence when appropriate.
Communicate with patients: Explain possible personal expenses when insurance has usage or replacement limitations.
How dental practices use D5711
A 68-year-old patient visits with a complete lower denture placed five years earlier. While the denture teeth remain in excellent condition, the acrylic foundation has cracked and no longer properly fits due to oral tissue changes. Following examination, the dentist concludes rebasing offers the best treatment option. The dental team records the damage, captures pre-treatment images, and documents the original placement date. The D5711 claim includes detailed explanations and supporting photographs. Insurance approves the treatment, allowing the patient to receive a rebuilt denture foundation that restores comfort and function at lower cost than complete replacement.
Common Questions
What is the typical timeframe for completing a mandibular denture rebasing procedure (D5711)?
A mandibular denture rebasing procedure coded as D5711 generally requires 3-7 days to complete from start to finish. The process begins with an initial appointment where your dentist takes impressions and assesses the existing denture condition. Your denture is then forwarded to a dental laboratory where technicians replace the denture base. Laboratory processing time varies based on workload and scheduling, but most rebasing procedures are finished within one week. Patients should expect a minimum of two appointments: the first for impressions and assessment, and the second for fitting and adjusting the newly rebased denture.
Do all dental insurance plans provide coverage for D5711?
Insurance coverage for D5711 differs significantly among dental plans and providers. Although many insurance policies include benefits for prosthodontic services such as denture rebasing, coverage often comes with restrictions including frequency limits, waiting periods, or exclusions related to previous dental work. Patients should always confirm their specific policy benefits before beginning treatment. Certain insurance plans may also require prior authorization or additional clinical documentation before approving the rebasing procedure.
Is it appropriate to use D5711 when denture teeth require replacement as well?
D5711 is not the correct code when denture teeth also need replacement. This procedure code applies exclusively to rebasing the acrylic denture base while the existing teeth remain in satisfactory condition. When both the denture base and teeth require replacement, the appropriate billing would involve a complete denture fabrication code, as this represents a full denture remake rather than a simple rebasing procedure.