Re: What's the code for a #4 bridge?

indigent@xxxxxxxx wrote:
The temp crown on my #4 finally broke apart and I am considering having it
removed (I have no money to pay for the root canal and crown) and then later
(when I have money) replacing the tooth with a bridge. (Is that what I would
need if I do have it removed?) What is the proper code for that bridge? I'd like
to look it up and see what it would cost me (copay schedule). I'm also curious
how the bridge attaches to the adjacent teeth. The teeth on either side of #4
are original and have no issues.

Thanks.


If this is a fixed bridge the adjacent teeth are prepared for crowns. In a normal 3-unit bridge the crown on either side of the missing tooth (abutment crowns) the code for a porcelain to high noble metal crown would be D6750. The replaced (false) tooth is called a pontic; the code for that is D4240.
Other materials can be used--if you have a complete guide to benefits by code number you can probably figure it out. The abutment teeth don't always need to be crowned, esp. if #3 and 5 are in good shape you can consider some kind of onlay. You might better consider implant replacement, which would leave the adjacent teeth alone. Note that sometimes there are technical difficulties placing implants in the area of tooth #4--there's a sinus close by. If the tooth is being extracted soon you should discuss the implant option with your surgeon. It might be prudent to graft the socket at the time of extraction to make later implant replacement easier.

Steve
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