
Dental Code D2664: Onlay - resin-based composite - four or more surfaces
Dental Code D2664 refers to a specific type of dental restoration known as an "onlay" that is composed of resin-based composite material and covers four or more surfaces of a tooth. This comprehensive restoration is an important option for individuals seeking to address significant tooth damage or decay while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
What Does Dental Code D2664 Mean?
Dental Code D2664 is used to classify and bill for a resin-based composite onlay restoration that covers four or more surfaces of a single tooth. An onlay is a type of indirect dental restoration, meaning it is fabricated outside of the mouth and then bonded to the prepared tooth.
The "resin-based composite" material refers to a tooth-colored, plastic-like substance that is durable, aesthetic, and biocompatible. This material is custom-shaped to fit over and around the affected areas of the tooth, providing structural support and protection.
The "four or more surfaces" designation indicates that this particular onlay restoration covers a substantial portion of the tooth, typically including the biting surface as well as multiple surrounding walls of the tooth. This extensive coverage is often necessary when a tooth has undergone significant damage or decay that cannot be adequately addressed with a standard filling.
Dental Code D2664 Price Range & Savings
On average, patients pay $55 for this D2664 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $40 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $80 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) |
$700 | $1000 | $1300 |
However, the price for the service D2664 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 Onlay Restoration Procedure
Preparation and Impression Taking
The process of receiving a D2664 onlay restoration typically begins with a thorough examination by the dentist to assess the extent of the tooth's damage or decay. If an onlay is deemed the most appropriate treatment, the dentist will carefully prepare the tooth by removing any compromised or unhealthy portions. This ensures a clean, stable surface for the onlay to be securely bonded.
Next, the dentist will take an accurate impression or digital scan of the prepared tooth and the surrounding dentition. This impression serves as the blueprint for the custom fabrication of the onlay in a dental laboratory.
Onlay Fabrication
The dental impression or digital scan is sent to a specialized dental laboratory, where a skilled technician will meticulously craft the onlay restoration. Using advanced computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies, the technician will design the onlay to precisely fit the prepared tooth and seamlessly blend with the patient's natural dentition.
The onlay is then manufactured, often using a resin-based composite material that is cured and hardened to achieve the desired strength and durability. Great care is taken to ensure the onlay's shape, color, and overall aesthetic appeal match the patient's existing teeth.
Onlay Placement
Once the custom onlay is ready, the patient will return to the dental office for the final placement procedure. The dentist will first thoroughly clean and condition the prepared tooth to optimize the bonding process. This helps to ensure a strong and durable bond between the onlay and the tooth structure. Then, the onlay is carefully positioned and securely bonded to the tooth using a specialized adhesive cement. This cement forms a tight seal around the edges of the onlay, preventing any leakage or gaps.
The dentist will carefully examine the fit, occlusion (bite), and appearance of the onlay, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and natural-looking result. They may use a special articulating paper to check the bite and make any minor adjustments to the onlay's surface to ensure proper contact with the opposing teeth. Finally, the onlay is polished to a smooth, lustrous finish, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the restoration.
Post-Operative Care
Following the placement of the D2664 onlay, the patient may experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort, which is typically managed with over-the-counter pain medication. This is a common and temporary side effect as the tooth adjusts to the new restoration. The dentist will provide detailed instructions on proper oral hygiene and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the restoration. This may include recommendations on brushing, flossing, and the use of special cleaning aids.
It is important for the patient to maintain regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor the condition of the onlay and the overall health of the tooth. During these appointments, the dentist can assess the onlay's fit, integrity, and any potential issues that may arise over time. With proper care, a resin-based composite onlay can provide years of reliable service and protection for the affected tooth, helping to restore its function and appearance.
Summary of Dental Code D2664
Dental Code D2664 represents a comprehensive, resin-based composite onlay restoration that covers four or more surfaces of a single tooth. This type of restoration is an important option for individuals with significant tooth damage or decay, as it allows for the preservation of as much natural tooth structure as possible while providing robust protection and support.
The onlay restoration process involves thorough tooth preparation, precise impression taking or digital scanning, custom fabrication in a dental laboratory, and careful placement and bonding by the dentist. With proper care and maintenance, a D2664 onlay can offer long-lasting, functional, and aesthetic benefits for the patient's dental health.
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