Dental Code D6243: Pontic - porcelain fused to titanium and titanium alloys

Dental Code D6243 refers to a specific dental procedure known as pontic placement, which involves the use of porcelain fused to titanium and titanium alloys. This code is used in dental billing and insurance claims to accurately describe and document the treatment provided to patients. In this article, we will explore the meaning of Dental Code D6243 and provide a detailed overview of the procedure involved, including its steps and the materials used.

Dental Code D6243 specifically denotes the fabrication and placement of a pontic, which is an artificial tooth used to replace a missing tooth in a dental arch. The pontic is constructed using porcelain material that is fused to a framework made from titanium or titanium alloys. This combination of materials provides both aesthetic appeal and durability, making it an excellent choice for patients in need of tooth replacement.

The first step in the process is the initial consultation with the dentist. During this visit, the dentist will evaluate the patient's oral health, review their dental history, and discuss their treatment options. If the patient is deemed suitable for a pontic placement, the dentist will proceed with the necessary preparations.

In cases where the missing tooth has not been previously extracted, the dentist will perform a tooth extraction prior to the pontic placement. This step ensures that the area is free from any remnants of the natural tooth and provides a clean slate for the subsequent procedures.

To create a custom-fit pontic, the dentist will take impressions of the patient's mouth using dental putty or digital scanning technology. These impressions capture the exact contours and dimensions of the patient's dental arch, enabling the dental laboratory to fabricate a pontic that seamlessly blends with the surrounding teeth. Impression taking plays a crucial role in ensuring an accurate fit for the pontic. Dental putty is commonly used to create physical impressions, where the putty is placed in a tray and inserted into the patient's mouth to capture the tooth and gum structure. Alternatively, digital scanning technology allows for a more precise and efficient process, where a handheld scanner is used to capture a digital representation of the patient's mouth, eliminating the need for physical impressions and improving overall patient comfort.

Once the impressions are obtained, the dental laboratory will use the provided specifications to fabricate a framework made from titanium or titanium alloys. This framework serves as the underlying support structure for the porcelain material and provides strength and stability to the pontic. Framework fabrication is a highly precise process that involves the use of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. The digital impressions obtained from the patient's mouth are converted into a 3D model, which is then used to guide the milling process. This precise milling technique ensures that the framework is crafted with exceptional accuracy, resulting in a well-fitting pontic that offers excellent support and longevity. The use of titanium or titanium alloys in the framework also provides added benefits, such as biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion.

After the framework is fabricated, the dental laboratory will apply layers of porcelain material to create a natural-looking tooth surface. Porcelain is chosen for its tooth-like appearance and ability to mimic the translucency and shade variations found in natural teeth. Skilled dental technicians carefully shape and contour the porcelain to achieve a lifelike appearance.

Once the pontic is fabricated, it is sent back to the dentist for a try-in appointment. During this visit, the dentist will assess the fit and aesthetics of the pontic and make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment with the adjacent teeth. This step is crucial in achieving a comfortable and natural-looking result.

After the try-in appointment, the dentist will bond the completed pontic to the adjacent teeth using dental cement or adhesive. The dentist will carefully position the pontic, ensuring that it aligns with the patient's bite and provides optimal function and aesthetics. Any excess cement or adhesive is removed, and the patient is given instructions on how to care for their new pontic.

Dental Code D6243 represents the placement of a pontic made from porcelain fused to titanium and titanium alloys. This procedure involves several steps, including consultation and examination, tooth extraction if necessary, impression taking, framework fabrication, porcelain application, try-in and adjustment, and final placement. The use of porcelain fused to titanium and titanium alloys provides both aesthetic appeal and durability, making it an excellent choice for patients in need of tooth replacement. By understanding the process involved in Dental Code D6243, patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and better understand the treatments they receive.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of dental procedures can differ depending on various factors, including geographical location and specific dental providers. To obtain accurate pricing details, you can take advantage of our Dr. BestPrice service, which enables you to compare prices and discover cost-saving options that suit your needs.