When is D6066 used?
The D6066 dental code applies to a single implant-supported porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown. This CDT code is appropriate when a patient receives a crown that connects directly to a dental implant abutment rather than a natural tooth. It's important to differentiate D6066 from other implant or crown codes, including D6057 (custom abutment) or D2740 (crown on natural tooth), to maintain proper billing practices and prevent claim rejections. Apply D6066 specifically when the crown receives support entirely from an implant and consists of PFM material.
D6066 Charting and Clinical Use
Accurate documentation plays a vital role in securing reimbursement. Clinical records must clearly document:
The implant's presence and specific location
Crown material composition (porcelain fused to metal)
Connection to the implant abutment rather than natural tooth structure
Before and after radiographs displaying the implant and completed restoration
Comprehensive narrative for complex cases (such as restricted interocclusal space or custom abutment requirements)
Typical clinical applications involve single-tooth replacement in both posterior and anterior areas where PFM crowns provide optimal durability and aesthetic results. Verify that charting and imaging consistently support D6066 usage.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
To optimize reimbursement and reduce processing delays, implement these recommended practices:
Confirm benefits: Prior to treatment, validate with the patient's insurance carrier that implant crowns receive coverage under their specific plan, since certain policies exclude implants or restrict crown materials.
Include comprehensive documentation: Submit clinical notes, radiographs, and detailed narratives with the original claim. This approach minimizes requests for supplemental information or claim rejections.
Apply accurate CDT codes: Verify that D6066 matches the restoration delivered. When a custom abutment is placed, code it independently (reference D6057).
Review EOBs carefully: Examine Explanation of Benefits documents quickly to spot underpayments or denials. For denied claims, submit timely and complete appeals with supplementary documentation when required.
Manage AR effectively: Establish a strong accounts receivable system to monitor outstanding claims and secure timely payments.
How dental practices use D6066
Practice Example: A 52-year-old patient arrives with a missing upper right first molar. The dentist installs a titanium implant and, following the healing period, restores the area with a porcelain fused to metal crown connected to a standard abutment. Clinical documentation specifies PFM crown usage, while radiographs verify both the implant and final restoration. The billing department files the claim using D6066 for the crown and D6056 for the abutment, including all necessary supporting materials. The insurance company approves the claim during initial processing, with payment received within normal timeframes.
This practice example demonstrates the significance of accurate coding, thorough documentation, and effective insurance coordination when billing implant-supported crowns with D6066.
Common Questions
Is D6066 applicable for crowns on multiple implants or bridge restorations?
D6066 is designated exclusively for a single crown supported by one dental implant. For bridge restorations or crowns that span multiple implants, you must use different CDT codes. Always consult the CDT codebook to identify the correct code for multi-unit prosthetic restorations.
What are typical reasons insurance companies deny D6066 claims?
Common denial reasons include inadequate documentation, insufficient evidence of medical necessity, missing radiographic images, or incorrect code submission. To minimize denials, ensure comprehensive documentation and verify all insurance requirements prior to claim submission.
Does D6066 include the implant fixture cost or only the crown restoration?
D6066 covers exclusively the implant-supported crown restoration, not the implant fixture or its surgical placement. You must use separate CDT codes for implant placement procedures and any required abutments. Each procedure component requires billing with its appropriate corresponding code.