Understanding Dental Code D6082

When to Use D6082 dental code

The D6082 dental code is designated for an implant-supported retainer crown used as part of a fixed partial denture (bridge). This CDT code should be used when a crown is placed on an implant abutment to support a bridge, rather than a single-unit implant crown. It is important to distinguish D6082 from codes such as D6065 (implant-supported porcelain/ceramic crown), which cover different clinical scenarios. Use D6082 only when the crown is part of a multi-unit prosthesis and is specifically functioning as a retainer for a fixed partial denture.

Documentation and Clinical Scenarios

Accurate documentation is essential for successful reimbursement. For D6082, ensure your clinical notes clearly state:

 
• The patient has an existing dental implant at the site.
 
• The crown is being placed as a retainer for a fixed partial denture (bridge), not as a single-unit restoration.
 
• Details of the adjacent units and the overall prosthetic plan.
 
• Pre- and post-operative radiographs showing the implant and the prosthesis.

Common clinical scenarios include replacing multiple missing teeth with a bridge supported by implants, where the D6082 code applies to the retainer crown(s) on the implant abutments.

Insurance Billing Tips

To maximize reimbursement and minimize denials for D6082:

 
• Verify benefits: Confirm the patient’s plan covers implant-supported prosthetics and specifically multi-unit bridges.
 
• Pre-authorization: Submit a detailed pre-treatment estimate with clinical notes, radiographs, and a clear prosthetic plan.
 
• Use correct attachments: Include narrative descriptions and supporting images with your claim.
 
• Track EOBs: Review Explanation of Benefits carefully for partial payments or denials, and be prepared to submit additional documentation if necessary.
 
• Appeal denials: If denied, reference the CDT code definition and provide additional clinical justification, emphasizing the multi-unit nature of the prosthesis.

Example Case for D6082

Consider a patient missing teeth #19 and #20. Two implants are placed at sites #19 and #21. A three-unit bridge is planned, with implant-supported retainer crowns on #19 and #21 and a pontic at #20. In this case, code D6082 is used for both retainer crowns on the implants, while the pontic is billed with D6071 (implant/abutment supported fixed partial denture pontic). Proper documentation and billing ensure accurate reimbursement and compliance with insurance requirements.