D4273 — Connective tissue graft (gum graft)
D4273 takes connective tissue from the palate and grafts it over an exposed root to cover recession.
Among the five codes in this group it is the workhorse — the one most practices report by default. The procedure behind it is explained at length in the periodontal grafting and regeneration guide.
Everything below is specific to this code: what it pins down, what it is worth, how a payer handles it, and which codes it is not.
Not to be confused with
D4267 — Guided tissue regeneration — non-resorbable membrane: It uses a non-resorbable barrier for the same purpose, which then has to be taken out at a second operation.
D4266 — Guided tissue regeneration — resorbable membrane: It places a resorbable barrier over a defect so that the body rebuilds bone there instead of soft tissue filling the space.
D4264 — Bone graft around a natural tooth (additional site): It is the each-additional line that follows it.
D4263 — Bone graft around a natural tooth (first site): It grafts bone into the defect around a natural tooth, and is billed for the first site treated.
Those four codes and D4273 are the whole group — nothing else describes this procedure. The practical point: confirm which of these is going on the claim before treatment, not after. Corrections after submission mean a resubmission, a delay, and occasionally a fee you did not expect.
Every code in this group
These codes describe the same broad procedure and differ in one respect each. Each has its own page with its own fee range and coverage notes.
| Code | Procedure |
|---|---|
| D4273 | Connective tissue graft (gum graft) — this page |
| D4263 | Bone graft around a natural tooth (first site) |
| D4264 | Bone graft around a natural tooth (additional site) |
| D4266 | Guided tissue regeneration — resorbable membrane |
| D4267 | Guided tissue regeneration — non-resorbable membrane |
Questions about D4273
What is D4273 on my dental bill?
D4273 is shorthand for connective tissue graft, gum graft — the same five characters every practice and every insurer in the country uses for it.
What should I expect to pay for D4273?
Usually somewhere in $900–$2,200 as a gross fee. The code fixes what was done, not what it costs, so ask for the practice's own figure in writing.
Is D4273 a covered benefit?
Usually yes, as major periodontal treatment at 0–50% — but coverage turns on your own policy, its annual maximum and any waiting period.
Also known as: gum graft, bone graft, guided tissue regeneration, receding gums, connective tissue graft.