Dental Code D2150: Amalgam - two surfaces, primary or permanent

Dental code D2150 refers to the procedure of placing an amalgam filling on two surfaces of a primary or permanent tooth. Amalgam is a common dental restoration material composed of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. This type of filling is known for its durability and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for many dental patients.

Dental code D2150 is classified under the "Restorative" category in the American Dental Association's (ADA) Current Dental Terminology (CDT). It specifically denotes the placement of an amalgam filling on two surfaces of a tooth, whether it is a primary (baby) tooth or a permanent (adult) tooth.

On average, patients pay $240 for this D2150 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $170 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $300 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$170	$240	$300

However, the price for the service D2150 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

The first step in the D2150 procedure is the preparation of the tooth. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring the patient remains comfortable throughout the process. They will then use a drill or other specialized instruments to remove any decayed or damaged portions of the tooth, creating a cavity that will be filled with the amalgam material. This process is crucial to ensure the long-term success of the restoration, as any remaining decay or damage can compromise the integrity of the filling and lead to further problems. The dentist will carefully assess the extent of the decay and use their expertise to remove only the necessary amount of tooth structure, preserving as much of the healthy tooth as possible.

Once the cavity has been prepared, the dentist will thoroughly clean and dry the area to ensure a proper bond between the tooth and the filling material. They may use specialized tools to shape the cavity, ensuring that it is the correct size and shape to accommodate the amalgam filling. This step is essential to create a secure and durable bond between the tooth and the filling. The dentist will also ensure that the cavity walls are smooth and even, which will help the amalgam fill the space effectively and prevent any gaps or voids that could lead to leakage or further decay. Additionally, the proper shaping of the cavity will help to distribute the forces of biting and chewing evenly across the filling, reducing the risk of fracture or wear over time.

The dentist will then mix the amalgam material, which is a combination of metals, and carefully pack it into the prepared cavity. They will use a specialized instrument to shape and condense the amalgam, ensuring that it fills the cavity completely and creates a smooth, even surface. The placement of the amalgam is a delicate process that requires a high level of skill and precision from the dentist. They must carefully manipulate the material to ensure that it flows into all the nooks and crannies of the cavity, and that it is compacted tightly to prevent any gaps or voids. The dentist will also take care to ensure that the amalgam is shaped and contoured to match the natural curves and contours of the tooth, providing a seamless and comfortable fit for the patient.

After the amalgam has been placed, the dentist will use specialized tools to trim, shape, and polish the filling. This ensures that the filling is smooth, comfortable, and blends seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. The finishing and polishing process is crucial to the long-term success of the restoration, as it helps to prevent the accumulation of plaque and debris, and reduces the risk of gum irritation or discomfort. The dentist will carefully inspect the filling to ensure that it is level with the surrounding tooth structure, and that there are no rough or sharp edges that could irritate the tongue or cheeks. They may also use a special polishing paste to create a glossy, mirror-like finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to keep clean.

The dentist will then inspect the filled tooth, ensuring that the occlusion (bite) is proper and that the patient can comfortably close their mouth without any interference from the filling. If necessary, they may make minor adjustments to the filling to ensure a proper fit and function. This step is crucial to the long-term success of the restoration, as any issues with the patient's bite or occlusion can lead to premature wear or failure of the filling. The dentist will carefully assess the patient's bite and make any necessary adjustments to the filling, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the surrounding teeth and that the patient can chew comfortably without any discomfort or pain.

The cost of a D2150 procedure can vary depending on the location, the dentist's experience, and the complexity of the restoration. On average, the cost of a two-surface amalgam filling can range from $100 to $300 per tooth. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of amalgam fillings, typically between 50% to 80% of the total cost.

Dental code D2150 refers to the placement of an amalgam filling on two surfaces of a primary or permanent tooth. This procedure is a common and cost-effective way to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or other dental issues. The process involves preparation, cleaning, amalgam placement, finishing, and a final inspection to ensure a proper fit and function. While the cost can vary, many dental insurance plans provide coverage for this type of restoration, making it an accessible option for many patients.

Visit Dr. BestPrice to compare prices and save money on dental treatments.