What Is The Bridge Sectioning Dental Code? | Here Are Important Secrets  

Knowing certain bridge sectioning dental codes can save you time and money if you consider dental work involving bridges. Imagine needing a dental bridge adjustment. The process might seem straightforward, but there are various complications involved. Knowing the relevant dental codes helps clarify what the procedure entails and what you can expect during your appointment. 

Moreover, this knowledge empowers you to have informed discussions with your dentist, ensuring you receive the best possible care. These codes not only streamline the process but also enhance the overall dental experience, making every visit to the dentist more predictable and less stressful. So let’s first talk about what bridge sectioning dental codes are.

What Is The Bridge Sectioning Dental Code?   

“Bridge sectioning” is a dental procedure where a dentist cuts a dental bridge into pieces. This is usually done to remove a damaged part of the bridge while keeping the rest in place. Dentists use a special code (called an ADA or CDT code) to bill insurance companies for this type of work. This code helps make sure the dentist gets paid correctly for the treatment.

ADA Code For Sectioning A Bridge      

The ADA code for sectioning a bridge is D9120. This bridge sectioning dental code refers to the procedure of fixed partial denture (FPD) sectioning, which involves cutting or separating a bridge to remove a part of it.   

When And Why CDT Code For Bridge Sectioning Is Used 

D9120 is used as CDT code for sectioning a bridge or when a portion of the bridge needs to be removed, but other parts are still functional and can be preserved. This might be due to damage to a single pontic or a problem with a single abutment tooth.

The bridge needs to be sectioned to facilitate further treatment, such as allowing access for placing a dental implant. You should know that D9120 only applies to sectioning a bridge while preserving some parts. A different code would be used if the entire bridge is being removed and replaced.

Other CDT Code For Dental Bridge   

What Does Dental Code D6740 Mean In Dentistry? 

The dental code D6740 is used for placing a crown made of porcelain or ceramic on a tooth that will support a bridge.   

How Can I Find Out The Exact Codes Used  My Bridge  

You won’t be able to definitively find the exact codes used for your bridge yourself since access to patient billing information is restricted. However, there are two ways to get this information:

1. Contact Your Dentist’s Office:

The most straightforward approach is to directly contact your dentist’s office and request the CDT codes used for your bridge procedure. They can access your dental records and provide the specific codes for the bridge itself as well as any additional procedures involved.

2. Review Your Billing Statements:

If you have a copy of your dental bill or statement related to the bridge procedure, it might include the relevant CDT codes. These codes are usually listed alongside descriptions of the procedures performed.

FAQs

How Can I Find Out The Exact 3-Unit Bridge Codes?

There’s no single code for a 3-unit bridge. A bridge is made of individual components, each with its own code. You can ask your dentist or look for CDT codes listed with descriptions related to your bridge procedure to get your 3-unit bridge code.      

Is D9120 Often Used With Other Codes, And How Does It Fit Into The Overall Coding System? 

Yes, D9120 is often used with other codes in bridge procedures. It signifies removing a part of an existing bridge while keeping other parts. Here’s how it fits in:

Bridge placement codes which are D6740, D6245, etc come first, reflecting the crowns and pontics used. Also, D9120 might follow if bridge sectioning is needed during the procedure. 

What Material Is Used In D6740 Crowns? 

D6740 specifically refers to a porcelain/ceramic crown used on a tooth supporting a bridge. It doesn’t specify the material underneath the porcelain. However, dentists often use various core materials for strength, like metal alloys.