A core build up is a dental restoration procedure performed before placing a crown when a significant amount of the tooth’s natural structure is missing. Patients often seek this treatment when a tooth has been severely damaged by decay, fracture, or previous large fillings. Understanding the associated costs is important for anyone planning to undergo major restorative dental work. The core build up is billed separately from the crown itself, making it a distinct financial consideration in a larger treatment plan.
Understanding the Core Build Up Procedure
A core build up, identified by the dental code D2950, is the process of rebuilding the damaged portion of the tooth to create a stable foundation for the eventual crown. This procedure is required when the remaining tooth structure is insufficient to properly retain a crown, typically meaning more than 50% of the tooth’s coronal structure is gone. This step provides enough solid material for the crown to grip securely, ensuring the long-term success of the restoration.
The procedure involves removing any decayed material and then applying a restorative substance, such as composite resin or amalgam, to the remaining tooth. This material is meticulously shaped to the required dimensions for a crown preparation. If the tooth is severely compromised, the dentist may also place retentive pins or a post within the root canal space to help anchor the core material, as the D2950 code includes the use of pins. Without this preparatory step, the crown would lack the necessary mechanical retention, potentially leading to failure.
The Average Cost Range
The typical out-of-pocket cost for a core build up procedure falls within a range of approximately $150 to $400 per tooth. This figure represents the fee for the D2950 procedure itself, before considering the separate cost of the crown that will be placed afterward. This wide range reflects the variability in dental fee schedules across the country and the complexity of the individual case.
For instance, a standard fee schedule for a general dental practice might list the core build up at around $300, while a dental insurance plan’s maximum allowable fee might be closer to $150. Patients should always obtain a detailed cost estimate from their dental provider before beginning treatment. The final price depends on whether you are paying the full fee or a discounted amount negotiated by a dental plan.
Factors Influencing the Final Price
Several variables contribute to the fluctuation in the final price of a core build up, starting with the material used for the restoration. Newer composite resins, which are tooth-colored and bond adhesively to the remaining tooth structure, generally cost more than traditional silver amalgam material. Composite is often preferred because it requires less aggressive removal of healthy tooth structure, but its cost reflects the material and the more involved placement technique.
The complexity and extent of the tooth damage also affect the fee. While the D2950 code covers the use of pins for retention, a severely broken-down tooth requiring more time and specialized techniques will often be billed at the higher end of the fee range. Procedures performed in high cost-of-living areas, such as major metropolitan cities, will nearly always have higher fees than those performed in rural locations. Finally, the fee schedule set by the individual practitioner, influenced by their experience and operating expenses, plays a role in the quoted price.
Insurance and Payment Considerations
Dental insurance plans usually classify the core build up as a major restorative service, which means it falls under a Class III benefit category. While coverage specifics vary widely, major restorative procedures are often covered at a rate of 50% after the annual deductible has been met. Patients should verify their policy details, as some plans may have a waiting period for major services or may only reimburse if the remaining tooth structure is significantly compromised.
Many insurance claims for D2950 are initially denied because the payer attempts to bundle the core build up into the crown procedure fee. The American Dental Association maintains that these are two distinct procedures. Dentists must provide thorough documentation, such as pre-operative X-rays and a narrative, to demonstrate the necessity of the build up to ensure crown retention. Patients without traditional insurance can look into alternative payment options, such as dental savings plans, which offer discounted fees for most services in exchange for an annual membership fee. Financing options like third-party medical credit cards are also available to help manage the out-of-pocket cost of the treatment.