When is D6710 used?
The D6710 dental code applies to a retainer crown—a crown that functions as part of a fixed partial denture (FPD), also called a bridge. This code is appropriate when placing a crown to anchor a pontic (replacement tooth) in a bridge structure, rather than for individual crowns or implant-supported restorations. It's important to differentiate D6710 from other codes like D2750 (crown, porcelain fused to high noble metal) or D6740 (retainer crown, porcelain/ceramic), since each code represents different materials and treatment situations.
D6710 Charting and Clinical Use
Accurate documentation is vital for claim approval when utilizing D6710. Dental practices should include these elements in patient records and claim submissions:
Comprehensive clinical notes outlining the missing tooth/teeth, the rationale for a fixed partial denture, and preparation of abutment teeth for retainer crowns.
Before and after radiographs displaying the edentulous area and supporting teeth.
Periodontal assessment when applicable, to verify the health and appropriateness of the abutment teeth.
Clinical photographs may provide additional support for treatment necessity.
Typical clinical situations involve restoring a single missing tooth using a three-unit bridge or addressing multiple missing teeth with an extended FPD. In all cases, D6710 applies to each retainer crown placed on the abutment teeth that support the bridge.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
Optimizing reimbursement for D6710 demands careful attention and proactive insurer communication. Consider these recommended practices:
Check coverage prior to treatment to confirm bridge benefits, frequency restrictions, and waiting periods.
Request pre-authorization with complete supporting materials to minimize denial probability.
Provide detailed narratives in claims, explaining why a bridge (and retainer crowns) represents the optimal treatment choice compared to alternatives like implants or removable appliances.
Review EOBs (Explanation of Benefits) carefully and prepare to contest denied claims using additional documentation or explanatory narratives.
Oversee AR (Accounts Receivable) to ensure prompt follow-up on pending claims.
Keep in mind that insurance plans might reduce benefits to a more economical option, such as a removable partial denture. Always discuss potential patient costs before beginning treatment.
How dental practices use D6710
Take a patient missing tooth #19. The treatment approach includes a three-unit bridge covering teeth #18 (abutment), #19 (pontic), and #20 (abutment). Here, D6710 would be coded for the retainer crowns on teeth #18 and #20, while D6240 would apply to the pontic. The claim should contain radiographs, a narrative justifying the fixed bridge selection, and records of the patient's dental background.
Through proper application of these guidelines and accurate use of the D6710 dental code, dental offices can improve their billing procedures, reduce claim denials, and ensure transparency for both insurance companies and patients.
Common Questions
What materials are typically used for retainer crowns under code D6710?
Retainer crowns coded as D6710 can be fabricated from various materials including porcelain fused to metal (PFM), all-ceramic materials, or full metal options like gold. Material selection is based on clinical requirements, patient preferences, and insurance plan benefits. Proper documentation of the crown material is essential since insurance providers may have varying coverage levels or restrictions depending on the specific material used.
Is D6710 applicable for both front and back teeth?
Yes, code D6710 applies to retainer crowns on both anterior and posterior teeth when the crown functions as a retainer component of a fixed partial denture or bridge. The code's usage is determined by the crown's role in the bridge structure rather than its position in the mouth.
What distinguishes D6710 from codes used for individual crowns or implant-supported crowns?
Code D6710 is exclusively for retainer crowns that form part of a fixed partial denture system. Individual crowns that are not bridge components use different codes such as D2740 for porcelain/ceramic substrate crowns, while implant-supported crowns are coded with D6065 or D6058. Incorrectly using D6710 for standalone crowns or implant crowns can lead to claim rejections.