Prosthodontics (Removable)
D5400-D5499

D5422Adjust Partial Denture - Mandibular

2026 Billing Guide ยท Last reviewed

Adjustment of a removable lower partial denture to improve fit, comfort, or function.

What This Code Covers

D5422 covers the chairside adjustment of a removable mandibular (lower) partial denture. The procedure includes sore spot relief, clasp adjustment, occlusal corrections, and border modifications to improve fit and comfort. This is the lower-arch counterpart to D5421.

Billing Guide

Bill this code when:

  • An existing lower partial denture requires chairside adjustment
  • Clasp adjustment, sore spot relief, or bite corrections are performed
  • The adjustment is beyond the initial post-delivery follow-up period
  • The denture is a removable partial (not a complete denture)

Do not bill this code when:

  • A complete lower denture is adjusted. Use D5411
  • An upper partial denture is adjusted. Use D5421
  • A reline is performed. Use D5750 or D5751
  • The adjustment is within the post-delivery inclusion period

Insurance and Denial Prevention

Key Payer Rules:

  • Same rules as D5421 apply for mandibular partial denture adjustments
  • Post-delivery adjustments are included in the partial denture fee for 30-90 days
  • Clasp adjustments are included in D5422
  • Frequency limits may apply

Common Denials and How to Respond:

  • Within post-delivery period - Check the plan's inclusion period and bill after it ends.
  • Frequency limit exceeded - Document the specific clinical need and consider whether the partial needs more extensive service.
  • Wrong code - Verify whether the denture is a partial (D5422) or complete (D5411).

Claim Submission Checklist

0/4 complete
Date of service
Description of the adjustment performed
Date the partial denture was originally delivered
Documentation that the adjustment is beyond the post-delivery period

Frequently Asked Questions

Lower partial dentures are subject to more movement than upper partials due to tongue action and a narrower ridge. Clasps may loosen over time, and tissue changes can affect the fit. Regular adjustment helps maintain comfort and function.

No. A clasp adjustment (tightening or bending) is included in D5422. A clasp repair (replacing a broken clasp) is a separate procedure billed under D5640 or similar repair codes.

Replacement should be considered when the denture requires very frequent adjustments, has broken multiple times, no longer fits despite relines, or when additional teeth have been lost requiring a new design.

Keep This Handy

Save this D5422 reference for quick access during billing.

Codes commonly billed alongside or often confused with this procedure.