Understanding Dental Code D5710

When to Use D5710 dental code

The D5710 dental code is used to report the rebase of a complete maxillary denture. Rebasing involves replacing all of the denture base material without changing the occlusal relationships or the arrangement of the teeth. This code is appropriate when the denture base has become ill-fitting due to changes in the patient’s oral anatomy, but the denture teeth are still in good condition. It is not used for routine relines or repairs; instead, it specifically applies when the entire base must be replaced, typically in a laboratory setting.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Proper documentation is essential for successful claim submission and reimbursement. Clinical notes should clearly indicate:

• The patient’s chief complaint (e.g., loose or unstable denture)
• Findings that justify rebasing (e.g., significant resorption, fractured base, or poor adaptation)
• Assessment that the denture teeth are serviceable and do not require replacement
• Details of the procedure performed, including impressions and laboratory work

Common clinical scenarios for D5710 include patients with long-standing dentures experiencing discomfort or instability, or after significant tissue changes post-extraction. If the denture teeth also require replacement, consider using the code for a new complete denture instead.

Insurance Billing Tips

To maximize reimbursement and minimize denials when billing D5710:

• Verify patient eligibility and plan frequency limitations for major prosthetic services before treatment.
• Submit detailed clinical notes and pre- and post-operative photos if possible.
• Include a laboratory invoice to substantiate the procedure’s complexity and cost.
• Use precise language in your narrative to distinguish rebasing from relining or repairs. Specify that all base material was replaced and the teeth were retained.
• Review the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) carefully. If denied, check for errors in documentation or frequency limitations, and file a claim appeal with additional supporting evidence if appropriate.

Example Case for D5710

Consider a 68-year-old patient who presents with a maxillary denture that has become loose and uncomfortable after several years of use. Examination reveals that the denture teeth are intact and functional, but the base no longer fits due to alveolar ridge resorption. The dentist determines that a rebase is indicated. After obtaining new impressions, the denture is sent to the lab, where all base material is replaced while preserving the original teeth. The procedure is documented thoroughly, and the claim is submitted with code D5710, including a narrative and lab invoice. The insurance carrier approves the claim, and the patient receives a stable, comfortable denture without the need for a full replacement.