D0273Bitewings - Three Radiographic Images

What This Code Covers

D0273 covers bitewings - three radiographic images. This procedure produces diagnostic images that help the dentist identify decay, bone loss, and other conditions not visible during a clinical exam. The images become part of the patient's permanent record and may be required for treatment planning documentation.

Billing Guide

Bill this code when:

• The specific imaging described by D0273 is performed and documented
• The image is clinically indicated for diagnosis or treatment planning
• The images are of diagnostic quality and stored in the patient record

Do not bill this code when:

• The images are retaken solely due to technical error at the same visit
• A different imaging type or field of view was actually captured
• The image was captured but not of diagnostic quality and must be repeated
• The procedure is better described by D0270 (Bitewing - single radiographic image)

Insurance and Denial Prevention

Key Payer Rules:

• Most plans cover diagnostic procedures under the diagnostic benefit category
• Frequency limits may apply for imaging codes (e.g., panoramic every 3-5 years, bitewings every 6-12 months)
• Some advanced imaging (CBCT, MRI) may require prior authorization

Common Denials and How to Respond:

• Frequency exceeded - Verify the payer's frequency schedule. Submit documentation of the clinical need if requesting an exception.
• Not medically necessary - Include the clinical indication and explain why this specific diagnostic procedure was required.
• Bundled with another procedure - Verify that the payer does not consider this code inclusive of another service billed on the same date.