When is D5751 used?
The D5751 dental code applies to the indirect reline of a complete lower denture. This CDT code is utilized when a patient's mandibular denture needs relining through laboratory processing rather than chairside procedures. Indirect relines are recommended when the denture base no longer properly fits the patient's oral structures due to tissue changes, bone loss, or extended use. Dental professionals should apply D5751 when the relining procedure requires taking impressions in the clinic and forwarding the denture to a laboratory for fabrication, providing enhanced durability and accuracy compared to chairside relines.
D5751 Charting and Clinical Use
Proper documentation is essential for successful insurance claims and payment processing. For D5751, dental offices should record:
Comprehensive clinical records describing patient complaints (such as poor fit, pain, or tissue problems).
Evaluation of denture retention and function.
Justification for the reline procedure (such as tissue modifications, denture age, or patient's oral condition).
Impression material specifications and verification of laboratory processing.
Before and after photographs when available to demonstrate treatment necessity.
Typical clinical situations involve patients with recent tooth extractions, accelerated bone resorption, or those with aging dentures that lack proper retention. Thorough documentation helps avoid claim rejections and supports resubmission processes when required.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
When processing D5751 claims, implement these strategies to improve payment outcomes and reduce processing delays:
Check coverage details prior to treatment. Many insurance plans have restrictions on reline coverage with time-based limitations (such as once per three-year period).
Include comprehensive documentation with initial claim submission, featuring clinical records and laboratory receipts.
Apply appropriate CDT codes for associated treatments. For upper denture relining, utilize D5750 alternatively.
Examine EOBs thoroughly for rejection explanations and prepare to file appeals with supplementary documentation when necessary.
Monitor AR to ensure prompt follow-up on outstanding claims.
Direct communication with insurance coordinators can help resolve coverage inquiries and accelerate claim approval processes.
How dental practices use D5751
A 68-year-old patient received a complete lower denture five years previously. The patient currently experiences poor retention and chewing difficulties. Clinical assessment shows substantial ridge resorption and inadequate denture stability. The dentist decides an indirect reline is required. Following impression procedures, the denture is forwarded to a dental laboratory for relining. The clinical team records examination findings, treatment rationale, and attaches laboratory documentation with the insurance claim. The claim is processed using D5751, and the practice obtains payment following initial processing due to complete documentation and proper billing procedures.
Common Questions
Does D5751 apply to relining upper (maxillary) dentures?
No, D5751 is exclusively designated for the reline of a complete mandibular (lower) denture using an indirect laboratory technique. For relining a complete maxillary (upper) denture, the appropriate code to use is D5750.
What is the typical timeframe for completing an indirect mandibular denture reline?
An indirect mandibular denture reline typically involves two separate appointments: the first appointment is for taking impressions and sending the denture to the laboratory, while the second appointment is for delivery and final adjustments. The entire process usually takes several days to one week, depending on the laboratory's processing schedule.
Is it appropriate to bill D5751 when the denture also needs repairs along with relining?
When a denture requires both relining and repairs, each service must be billed separately using distinct codes. D5751 specifically covers only the laboratory reline procedure for a complete mandibular denture. Additional repairs such as fracture fixes or tooth replacements should be billed using the corresponding repair codes alongside D5751.