D3347Retreatment of Previous Root Canal Therapy - Bicuspid

What This Code Covers

D3347 covers the retreatment of a previously root canal-treated premolar (bicuspid) tooth. The procedure involves removing the existing root canal filling material (gutta percha, sealer, posts), re-cleaning and reshaping the canals, and placing new obturation material. Retreatment is needed when the original root canal has failed, typically due to persistent infection, missed canals, inadequate seal, or new decay.

Billing Guide

Bill this code when:

• A premolar (bicuspid) that previously had root canal therapy requires retreatment
• The existing root canal filling material is removed and replaced
• The canals are re-instrumented, disinfected, and re-obturated
• The tooth has a failing or failed previous root canal (persistent symptoms, periapical pathology)

Do not bill this code when:

• The tooth is anterior. Use D3346
• The tooth is a molar. Use D3348
• This is the initial root canal, not a retreatment. Use D3320 for bicuspid
• Apicoectomy (surgical retreatment) is performed instead. Use D3410-D3427

Insurance and Denial Prevention

Key Payer Rules:

• D3347 is typically covered when the original root canal has failed
• Retreatment fees are generally higher than initial root canal fees
• Some payers require a waiting period after the original root canal before covering retreatment
• Radiographic evidence of failure (persistent or new periapical radiolucency) strengthens the claim

Common Denials and How to Respond:

• Original root canal too recent - Some payers deny retreatment within a certain time frame of the original procedure. Appeal with clinical evidence of failure (symptoms, radiographic pathology) showing retreatment is necessary regardless of timing.
• Should be apicoectomy - Document why non-surgical retreatment was the appropriate first approach before considering surgery.
• Missing documentation of original root canal - Submit any available records or radiographs showing the existing root canal fill. If the original treatment was done by another provider, note this.