Dental Code D6549 retainer – for resin bonded fixed prosthesis

Dental Code D6549 refers to a specific dental procedure known as a retainer for resin bonded fixed prosthesis. This code is used to identify and bill for the placement of a retainer that supports a resin bonded fixed prosthesis, which is a type of dental restoration.

On average, patients pay $715 for this D6549 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $265 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $1420 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)
$265	$715	$1420

However, the price for the service D6549 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. 

Dental Code D6549 specifically refers to the retainer used for a resin bonded fixed prosthesis. A resin bonded fixed prosthesis, also known as a Maryland bridge, is a dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth by bonding a pontic (artificial tooth) to the adjacent teeth using a metal or ceramic framework. The retainer, in this case, is a thin metal or ceramic structure that is bonded to the back surface of the adjacent teeth to support the pontic.

The first step in the process of placing a retainer for a resin bonded fixed prosthesis is an initial evaluation and treatment planning. During this stage, the dentist will assess the patient's oral health, review their medical history, and take any necessary dental X-rays or scans. The dentist will also discuss the treatment options with the patient and develop a customized treatment plan based on their specific needs.

Once the treatment plan is established, the next step is tooth preparation. This involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel from the back surface of the adjacent teeth that will support the retainer. The dentist will carefully shape the teeth to create space for the retainer and ensure a proper fit. Local anesthesia may be administered to ensure the patient's comfort during this process.

After tooth preparation, the dentist will take an impression of the prepared teeth. This is done using dental impression materials, such as dental putty or alginate. The impression captures the exact shape and position of the prepared teeth, which will be used by a dental laboratory to fabricate the retainer. The dentist may also take impressions of the opposing teeth to ensure proper occlusion (bite). In addition to capturing the shape and position of the prepared teeth, the impressions taken by the dentist may also include the adjacent teeth to ensure a seamless fit and natural appearance of the retainer. These impressions provide the dental laboratory with a detailed model to fabricate a custom retainer that perfectly matches the patient's dentition. The accuracy of the impressions is crucial for ensuring the retainer's proper fit, functionality, and longevity.

While the custom retainer is being fabricated at the dental laboratory, a temporary restoration may be placed to protect the prepared teeth. The temporary restoration helps maintain the aesthetics and function of the patient's smile during the waiting period. The dentist will ensure that the temporary restoration is securely placed and provides adequate support to the adjacent teeth.

Once the custom retainer is received from the dental laboratory, the patient will return to the dentist for the final step of the process – bonding the retainer. The dentist will carefully clean the prepared teeth and the retainer to ensure optimal bonding. Dental bonding agents, such as resin cements, will be used to attach the retainer to the back surface of the adjacent teeth. The dentist will ensure that the retainer is accurately positioned and securely bonded. During the bonding process, the dentist may use techniques such as light curing to activate the resin cement and ensure a strong bond between the retainer and the teeth. The dentist will also check the patient's bite to ensure that it is aligned correctly and make any necessary adjustments. Proper bonding is essential for the long-term success of the retainer, as it ensures stability, functionality, and aesthetics.

After the retainer is bonded in place, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit, comfort, and occlusion. Excess bonding material will be removed, and the retainer will be polished to achieve a smooth and natural appearance. The dentist will also check the patient's bite to ensure that it is aligned correctly.

Dental Code D6549 represents the placement of a retainer for a resin bonded fixed prosthesis. This procedure involves several steps, including initial evaluation and treatment planning, tooth preparation, impression taking, temporary restoration, bonding the retainer, and final adjustments and polishing. The retainer provides support to a resin bonded fixed prosthesis, which is a dental restoration used to replace a missing tooth. By understanding the dental code and the associated procedure, patients can have a better understanding of the treatment process and its benefits. If you are considering this dental procedure, consult with your dentist to determine if it is the right option for you.

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