Understanding Dental Code D2753

When to Use D2753 dental code

The D2753 dental code is designated for a crown procedure described as “Crown – porcelain fused to titanium and titanium alloys.” This CDT code is specifically used when a patient requires a full-coverage restoration, and the material selected is porcelain fused to a titanium-based substructure. It is most commonly indicated for patients with metal allergies, biocompatibility concerns, or in cases where strength and aesthetics are both critical, such as in posterior teeth or patients with heavy occlusion.

Dental teams should select D2753 only when the crown is fabricated with a titanium or titanium alloy base and covered with porcelain. Using this code for crowns made with other metals (such as high noble or base metal alloys) is incorrect and may result in claim denials or delays.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is essential for successful reimbursement of D2753. Clinical notes should clearly specify:

• The tooth number being restored
• The clinical rationale for choosing a titanium-based crown (e.g., allergy to other metals, need for increased strength, or patient preference)
• Preoperative and postoperative radiographs or intraoral images
• Detailed narrative if requested by the payer, including previous restorative history and any failed restorations

Common clinical scenarios include patients with known sensitivities to base metals, those requiring implant-supported crowns (where titanium is often the abutment material), or cases where a previous porcelain fused to noble metal crown failed due to allergic reaction.

Insurance Billing Tips

To maximize claim acceptance for D2753, dental billers should follow these best practices:

• Verify patient benefits before treatment, confirming coverage for titanium-based crowns and any frequency limitations.
• Submit a pre-authorization when possible, including supporting documentation and a detailed narrative explaining the clinical need for titanium.
• Use precise CDT coding—do not substitute D2753 for similar crown codes unless the material matches exactly.
• Attach supporting images and documentation to the claim to reduce the likelihood of requests for additional information or claim denials.
• If an EOB (Explanation of Benefits) comes back with a denial, review the payer’s policy, gather additional clinical evidence, and submit a claim appeal with a clear explanation of medical necessity.

Staying current with payer guidelines and maintaining detailed records in your AR (accounts receivable) system will help streamline the revenue cycle and minimize delays.

Example Case for D2753

Consider a patient with a history of allergic reactions to base metals who presents with a fractured molar requiring full coverage. After discussing material options, the dentist and patient agree on a porcelain fused to titanium crown. The dental team documents the patient’s allergy, the tooth number, and the clinical justification in the chart. Preoperative radiographs and intraoral images are saved. The biller verifies insurance coverage, submits a pre-authorization with all supporting documentation, and uses D2753 on the claim form. The claim is approved, and the office receives prompt reimbursement, demonstrating the importance of accurate coding and thorough documentation.