When is D9120 used?
The D9120 dental code applies to the sectioning of fixed partial dentures, also referred to as bridges. This CDT code is utilized when a dentist must cut and divide a fixed bridge, usually to enable removal of a portion of the prosthetic or to resolve problems like decay, failing abutments, or structural damage to part of the bridge. This code does not apply to complete bridge removal or repairs that don't require sectioning. Correct application of D9120 helps ensure proper reporting and payment for the specific dental service rendered.
D9120 Charting and Clinical Use
Proper documentation is essential when using D9120 for billing purposes. Dental practices must document the clinical reason for bridge sectioning, including situations like recurring decay beneath an abutment, mobility in a supporting tooth, or a broken pontic. Patient records should contain pre-treatment radiographs, intraoral photos when possible, and detailed notes explaining why sectioning was required. For instance, when a patient has decay beneath one abutment of a three-unit bridge and only that portion requires removal, D9120 is the correct code. Always document which specific teeth are involved, the sectioning extent, and any follow-up procedures that are planned or completed.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
When filing a claim for D9120, provide thorough clinical documentation and supporting materials to reduce denial risk. Include before and after radiographs, and supply a detailed explanation of why sectioning was required rather than complete removal. Note that some insurance companies may view D9120 as included with other treatments, like extractions or new prosthetic placement, so carefully review payer guidelines and explanation of benefits. When claims are denied, prepare appeals by collecting all clinical evidence and citing the CDT code definition. Many successful dental practices use documentation checklists to verify all necessary information is included before claim submission.
How dental practices use D9120
Take a patient with a five-unit fixed bridge covering teeth #3 through #7. The abutment on tooth #5 cannot be restored due to extensive decay. The dentist chooses to section the bridge between teeth #5 and #6, removing the damaged section while keeping the healthy portion intact. For this situation, D9120 is billed for the sectioning service. The claim documentation should include notes like: "Sectioned five-unit fixed bridge between #5-#6 due to unrestorable decay on #5 abutment; before and after radiographs included." This thorough documentation supports the claim and improves chances for prompt payment.
Common Questions
Do all dental insurance plans cover D9120 procedures?
Coverage for D9120 varies significantly among dental insurance carriers and individual policies. Some insurance plans may classify bridge sectioning as part of another procedure or exclude it from coverage entirely. It's essential to verify benefits with the patient's insurance provider prior to performing the procedure and submitting any claims.
Is it possible to bill D9120 together with other dental procedures during the same appointment?
Yes, D9120 may be billed concurrently with other procedures like tooth extractions (D7140) or new prosthetic fabrication (D6240) when clinically appropriate. Each service must be documented and coded individually, with comprehensive documentation clearly demonstrating the medical necessity for all procedures completed during the appointment.
What information should be provided in the narrative for D9120 claim submissions?
An effective narrative for D9120 should detail the clinical rationale for bridge sectioning, identify the specific teeth affected, document clinical observations such as decay, tooth mobility, or fractures, and explain the expected treatment outcome. Include references to supporting radiographic images or clinical photographs, and justify why sectioning was the preferred treatment option over complete bridge removal or repair.