Understanding Dental Code D5751

When to Use D5751 dental code

The D5751 dental code is designated for the reline of a complete mandibular denture (indirect). This CDT code is used when a patient’s lower (mandibular) denture requires relining in a dental laboratory, rather than chairside. Indirect relines are typically indicated when the denture base no longer fits the patient’s oral tissues due to bone resorption, tissue changes, or prolonged wear. Dentists should use D5751 when the reline process involves taking an impression in the office and sending the denture to a lab for processing, ensuring a more durable and precise fit compared to direct (chairside) relines.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is critical for successful claim submission and reimbursement. For D5751, dental teams should include:

• Detailed clinical notes describing the patient’s symptoms (e.g., looseness, discomfort, tissue irritation).
• Assessment of the denture’s fit and stability.
• Reason for the reline (e.g., significant tissue changes, age of denture, patient’s oral health status).
• Type of impression material used and confirmation that the denture was sent to a dental lab.
• Pre- and post-operative photos, if possible, to support the need for the procedure.

Common clinical scenarios include patients who have had recent extractions, rapid bone loss, or those whose dentures are several years old and no longer fit securely. Proper documentation helps prevent denials and supports appeals if necessary.

Insurance Billing Tips

When billing D5751, follow these best practices to maximize reimbursement and minimize claim delays:

• Verify patient benefits before treatment. Not all plans cover relines, and frequency limitations often apply (e.g., once every 3 years).
• Submit supporting documentation with the initial claim, including clinical notes and lab invoices.
• Use correct CDT codes for related procedures. For example, if relining a maxillary denture, use D5750 instead.
• Review EOBs (Explanation of Benefits) carefully for denial reasons and be prepared to submit a claim appeal with additional documentation if needed.
• Track AR (Accounts Receivable) to ensure timely follow-up on unpaid claims.

Proactive communication with insurance representatives can also clarify coverage questions and expedite claim processing.

Example Case for D5751

Consider a 68-year-old patient who received a complete mandibular denture five years ago. The patient now reports looseness and difficulty chewing. Clinical examination reveals significant alveolar bone resorption and poor denture retention. The dentist determines an indirect reline is necessary. After taking a new impression, the denture is sent to a dental lab for relining. The dental team documents the clinical findings, reason for the reline, and includes a copy of the lab invoice with the claim. The insurance claim is submitted using D5751, and the practice receives reimbursement after the initial review, thanks to thorough documentation and adherence to billing protocols.