The dental code D5110 specifically refers to a complete denture - maxillary. This code is a crucial part of the American Dental Association's (ADA) Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes, used by dental professionals for billing and record-keeping purposes.
Understanding Dental Code D5110
D5110 falls under the broader category of Prosthodontics, Removable, which encompasses a range of procedures related to the fabrication and placement of removable dental appliances. These codes are essential for accurately describing the services provided to patients and for facilitating insurance claims.
What is a Complete Maxillary Denture?
A complete maxillary denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace all natural teeth in the upper jaw (maxilla) when they are missing. It rests directly on the gums and underlying bone, restoring chewing ability, speech, and the aesthetic appearance of the smile.
Key Characteristics of D5110
- Service Description: Complete denture for the upper jaw.
- Prior Authorization: Services billed under D5110 typically require prior authorization from insurance providers. This means that the dental office must obtain approval from the patient's insurance company before the denture fabrication and placement can proceed, ensuring coverage for the procedure.
- Category: It is part of the D5000-D5899 series, which covers various types of removable prosthodontic appliances.
Context within Prosthodontics
The D5000 series is dedicated to removable prosthodontics. Here’s how D5110 fits into this classification:
| Code | Description of Service | Prior Authorization |
|---|---|---|
| D5110 | Complete denture - maxillary | Yes |
| D5120 | Complete denture - mandibular | Yes |
This table illustrates that D5110 is specifically for the upper arch, while D5120 covers the lower arch. Other codes within this series address partial dentures (e.g., D5211 for a maxillary partial denture with a resin base) and other related procedures.
Importance of Accurate Coding
Accurate use of dental codes like D5110 is vital for:
- Proper Billing: Ensuring patients and insurance companies are correctly charged for services rendered.
- Insurance Claims: Expediting the approval and processing of claims.
- Patient Records: Maintaining clear and consistent documentation of treatments.
- Data Analysis: Contributing to comprehensive healthcare data for research and policy-making.
For more detailed information on dental codes and prosthodontics, you can consult official dental coding guides or relevant dental health resources such as those provided by organizations like the American Dental Association or government health services (e.g., www.forwardhealth.wi.gov).
