D2751Crown - Porcelain Fused to Predominantly Base Metal

What This Code Covers

D2751 covers a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown where the metal substructure is made from predominantly base metal alloy (such as nickel-chromium or cobalt-chromium). The porcelain outer layer provides esthetics while the metal core provides strength. This is a more cost-effective option than high noble (D2750) or noble metal (D2752) PFM crowns.

Billing Guide

Bill this code when:

• A PFM crown is fabricated using a predominantly base metal alloy substructure
• The metal alloy contains less than 25% noble metals
• The crown is cemented as a single-tooth restoration

Do not bill this code when:

• The metal is high noble (over 60% noble metals, 40% gold). Use D2750
• The metal is noble (25-60% noble metals). Use D2752
• The crown is all-ceramic with no metal. Use D2740
• The crown is a retainer for a bridge. Use the appropriate D6700 series code

Insurance and Denial Prevention

Key Payer Rules:

• D2751 is typically covered at the same benefit level as other PFM crown codes
• Some plans apply a least expensive alternative treatment (LEAT) policy and pay all PFM crowns at the base metal rate regardless of the alloy used
• Crown benefits are often covered at 50% with a waiting period
• Most plans have a replacement frequency of one crown per tooth every 5 to 10 years

Common Denials and How to Respond:

• Frequency limit → Verify the date of the last crown on the same tooth. If the previous crown failed, submit documentation.
• Not medically necessary → Submit radiographs and clinical notes showing why the tooth cannot be restored with a filling.
• Waiting period not met → Verify the plan's waiting period for major services.