Dental coding with Kyle: D4249—Clinical crown lengthening, hard tissue

Purpose: If a tooth breaks or is grossly decayed it may be difficult to restore with a crown.

A crown lengthening is performed when there is very little remaining tooth structure. The procedure involves a tissue flap, which removes bone and soft tissue to expose more tooth surface so that it may be properly restored.

Submitting the claim with x-rays is not enough to facilitate coverage and payment.

• This code should be applied only when the procedure involves removing hard tissue (bone).

• Dental insurance companies will refer to the patient plan limitations and exclusions when considering the dental claim. This procedure has a limitation of once per lifetime, per tooth.

• If reporting a restorative procedure on the same tooth and on the same day as crown lengthening, the claim will be denied for payment.

• A narrative should be included that indicates percentage of tooth structure remaining after crown lengthening.

• Pre-op and post op x-rays must always accompany the claim form, and in addition, periodontal charting should be included.

Good luck coding!