Code Tip: D2980 Crown Repair

D2980 is a “crown” repair to a prosthetic, not a natural tooth surface filling.  It is to repair a material failure such as a fracture.  It would be any part of the crown.

Billing D2980

 If a filling is needed to repair decay below the crown’s margins, report the appropriate amalgam or composite code, including a narrative such as “below the margin of the crown in the area of facial decay”.

A crown repair is subject to plan provision frequency limitation(5 to 10 years) as is a permanent filling restoration on the tooth(2 years or more).

If the tooth is to be part of a fixed bridge (say abutment on #29) in the near future it may be denied for #29 abutment coverage or reduced in coverage if the filling is covered based on the plan provision. ( If #29 gets a  filling it is considered a permanent restoration.)  This could result in the denial of this tooth as an abutment to a bridge because it has been restored.

Using a palliative code is wrong because a palliative visit is not for definitive treatment such as a filling and involves addressing pain relief only. This code cannot be combined with any treatment code on the same date.

The question is:  “Did they remove the crown, place a filling and recement?  How extensive was the decay? Did they do a build-up(cannot bill for that with the crown repair code)or did they do a filling?”

Then bill for what they do and explain the plan limitations to the patient.  Make sure the treatment plan is in writing.

There are other codes to consider depending on the clinical notes such as D2940-Protective Restoration(with a narrative explaining the time it takes to do it, the reason, and the expected time for the placement of the permanent restorative(fixed bridge).

If you are struggling with dental codes consider partnering with eAssist. Our Success Consultants are familiar with the various CDT codes and will ensure they are billed correctly. To learn more, schedule a consultation here.

Sandy Odle

Co-Founder and CXO, eAssist

Sandy Odle is the Co-Founder and CXO of eAssist Dental Solutions, where she has played a key role in shaping the company’s business and marketing strategies, leading to record growth and national recognition on the Inc. 500 and Utah Top 100 lists. A passionate social entrepreneur, Sandy believes that business is about building meaningful connections and creating personalized solutions that truly meet customer needs. Her relentless commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences is at the heart of eAssist’s mission. Drawing on the discipline and attention to detail honed during her early career as a ballet dancer, Sandy brings a unique blend of creativity, precision, and work ethic to everything she does.