When is D6058 used?
The D6058 dental code applies to abutment-supported crowns made from porcelain or ceramic materials in implant procedures. This CDT code is appropriate when patients receive crowns that rest on implant abutments instead of natural teeth. The restoration must be constructed entirely from porcelain or ceramic. Correct application of D6058 ensures proper billing and claim processing, as incorrect coding may result in claim rejections or delayed payments.
D6058 Charting and Clinical Use
Supporting the use of D6058 requires thorough documentation from dental practices. This includes:
Clinical records detailing implant placement, abutment type, and crown material composition.
X-ray documentation demonstrating the positioned implant and abutment.
Laboratory receipts confirming the crown is porcelain/ceramic and supported by an abutment.
Typical clinical situations for D6058 involve patients who have finished implant integration and require final restoration using a porcelain or ceramic crown. When alternative materials are utilized, such as metal crowns, the corresponding CDT code should be applied (refer to D6057 for cast metal crowns).
Billing and Insurance Considerations
Effective dental practices implement these strategies when billing D6058:
Confirm insurance benefits prior to treatment, since implant crowns may have plan limitations or waiting requirements.
File pre-determinations including comprehensive clinical documentation and x-rays to minimize denial risk.
Provide specific descriptions in claims, clearly stating the crown is abutment-supported and constructed from porcelain or ceramic.
Include supporting materials like laboratory documentation and radiographs with initial claim submissions.
Examine EOBs (Explanation of Benefits) thoroughly and prepare to submit appeals with additional evidence if claims are rejected.
Being proactive with benefit verification and record-keeping supports healthy accounts receivable and reduces payment delays.
How dental practices use D6058
Case Study: A 52-year-old patient arrives with a missing upper right first molar. Following successful implant integration and healing, the dentist chooses a custom abutment and creates a porcelain crown. The clinical staff records the treatment, includes radiographs, and files a claim with D6058. The insurance carrier initially seeks additional details. The practice promptly provides laboratory invoices and comprehensive treatment notes. The claim receives approval, and reimbursement arrives within the typical AR timeframe.
This case demonstrates how complete documentation and quick response times lead to successful payment when applying the D6058 dental code.
Common Questions
Is D6058 applicable for crowns on multiple adjacent implants?
D6058 cannot be used for multiple adjacent implants as it is designated exclusively for a single abutment-supported porcelain or ceramic crown on one implant. When treating multiple adjacent implants or creating bridgework, alternative CDT codes like D6065 or D6075 should be utilized based on the specific restoration type and support structure.
Which patient conditions make D6058 the most suitable code choice?
D6058 becomes the preferred coding option for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities since it encompasses all-porcelain and all-ceramic crown restorations. Additionally, it's particularly suitable for anterior esthetic zones where metal-free restorations are essential to achieve superior cosmetic results.
How should dental practices handle cases where insurance doesn't cover implant-supported crowns under D6058?
When a patient's insurance policy excludes implant-supported crown coverage, dental practices must provide pre-treatment notification to the patient, explore alternative payment arrangements, and potentially offer financing solutions or structured payment plans. Obtaining proper financial consent and maintaining thorough documentation is crucial in such situations.