CDT Codes for Dental Bridge Procedures: Definitive Guide

1. What Are the CDT Codes for Dental Bridge Procedure? Definitions & Usage Date: June 5, 2025 Source: https://mydentalrevenue.com/cdt-codes-for-dental-bridge/ Introduction Understanding the correct CDT codes for dental bridges is essential for dental billers, providers, and office managers to file claims accurately and get reimbursed promptly. These codes are more than just administrative tools; they ensure precise documentation of treatments, support insurance communication, and reduce the chance of claim denial. Correct usage of CDT codes also improves billing accuracy, streamlines audits, and helps practices stay compliant with ADA and payer requirements. This guide will help you select the

2. correct dental bridge codes from the beginning for faster claims, better documentation, and fewer payment delays. Importance of CDT Codes for Dental Bridges CDT (Current Dental Terminology) codes are developed and maintained by the American Dental Association (ADA) to standardize procedures and ensure consistent documentation across dental practices in the U.S. These five-character alphanumeric codes (e.g., D6740, D6245) represent different services, including abutments, pontics, and crowns. Each step in the dental bridge process—from impressions to final cementation—has its own CDT code. For example: D6750: Porcelain crown on a high noble metal retainer. D6240: Pontic made from porcelain fused to high noble metal. Using the correct CDT codes: Improves claim approval rates. Ensures accurate billing and documentation. Reduces legal and financial risks. Supports uniform treatment records and evaluation. What Is a Dental Bridge? A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or implants. It restores function, maintains facial shape, and prevents teeth from shifting. Components of a Dental Bridge Abutment Teeth: Support the bridge (can be natural teeth or implants). Pontics: Artificial teeth replacing the missing ones. Connectors: Secure the structure. The abutment teeth are crowned to hold the bridge, and the pontics are designed to match the natural teeth’s color and shape.

3. Types of Dental Bridges Traditional Bridge: Crowns placed on adjacent teeth. Cantilever Bridge: Used when there’s only one adjacent tooth. Maryland Bonded Bridge: Metal/porcelain wings bonded to the back of teeth (typically for front teeth). Implant-Supported Bridge: Uses implants instead of natural teeth for support. Complete List of CDT Codes for Dental Bridges Category CDT Code D6245 D6240 D6241 D6242 D6210 D6740 D6750 D6751 D6752 D6790 D6791 Description Pontics (Artificial Teeth) Retainer Crowns Implant-Supported Components D6066 Other Relevant Codes Pontic – Porcelain/Ceramic Pontic – Porcelain fused to high noble metal Pontic – Porcelain fused to base metal Pontic – Porcelain fused to noble metal Pontic – Cast metal Retainer Crown – Porcelain/Ceramic Retainer Crown – Porcelain fused to high noble metal Retainer Crown – Porcelain fused to base metal Retainer Crown – Porcelain fused to noble metal Retainer Crown – Full cast high noble metal Retainer Crown – Full cast base metal Implant-supported crown – Porcelain fused to metal Implant-supported retainer – Ceramic Implant-supported retainer – Porcelain fused to metal Implant-supported retainer – Cast metal Re-cement or re-bond fixed partial denture Fixed partial denture sectioning (Bridge sectioning) D6075 D6076 D6077 D6930 D9120 Detailed CDT Code Descriptions Pontics: D6245: All-porcelain/ceramic; excellent aesthetics. D6240: Porcelain fused to high noble metal; strong and lifelike. D6241: Porcelain fused to base metals; budget-friendly. D6242: Porcelain fused to noble metal; aesthetic and durable. D6210: Cast metal; used in back teeth for durability.

4. Retainer Crowns: D6740: All-ceramic crown; natural look. D6750: Porcelain fused to high noble metal; strong and realistic. D6751: Porcelain fused to base metal; cost-effective. D6752: Porcelain fused to noble metal; durable and aesthetic. D6790: Full cast high noble metal; strong, corrosion-resistant. D6791: Full cast base metal; cost-efficient and long-lasting. Implant-Supported: D6066: Implant-supported porcelain/metal crown. D6075: Implant-supported ceramic retainer. D6076: Porcelain fused to metal implant retainer. D6077: Cast metal implant retainer. Costs of Dental Bridges & CDT Code Role Typical costs range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on: Number of teeth replaced. Materials used. Location and case complexity. Using CDT codes ensures transparent pricing and smoother insurance billing. For example: D6245 (ceramic pontic) may cost more due to higher lab fees. D6240 (porcelain-metal pontic) cost varies based on metal. Proper CDT coding allows: Uniform billing practices. Better patient communication on fees. Accurate insurance reimbursement. Insurance & Billing Tips for CDT Codes Always use the most recent CDT codes. Match procedure codes with the actual materials and type of bridge. Train your staff regularly on CDT code updates.

5. Audit documentation frequently to prevent rejected claims. Active billing and pre-authorizations can reduce denials and delays. Common CDT Coding Mistakes Using D2750 instead of D6740 for bridge retainers. Confusing pontic codes (e.g., D6240) with implant crown codes (e.g., D6065). Using outdated CDT codes not valid in the current year. Mistaking noble metals with base metals—important for D6790 vs D6791. Final Thoughts Using CDT codes for dental bridges with accuracy and attention is crucial for getting claims approved, supporting documentation, and staying compliant. Ensure your billing team is trained, your documentation aligns with actual services, and your practice updates codes annually. Doing so will protect your revenue, improve workflows, and help your practice maintain the highest standards in dental care.