D5214 — Lower partial denture, cast metal framework
A partial denture replaces some of the teeth in an arch and is held in place by the teeth that remain. D5214 is the version in a cast metal framework, for the lower jaw.
13 codes describe partial denture, and this is one of them. What separates it from the other twelve is the subject of this page; the partial denture guide covers the treatment itself.
The rest of this page deals with the specifics: the requirements written into the code, the usual range of fees, the typical benefit outcome, and how to tell it apart from its closest relatives.
What the code commits to
Material — a cast metal framework. A cast-framework partial is built around a thin, rigid metal skeleton — cobalt chromium, or occasionally gold — with acrylic and teeth added to it. Rigidity is the entire point: it spreads chewing load onto the remaining teeth through precisely fitted rests rather than pressing it into the gum, which both feels more stable and protects the ridge from resorbing. It is thinner and considerably stronger than acrylic, and it costs and lasts roughly twice as much. The material is part of the code rather than a choice made afterwards, so D5214 is only the right code if that is what was actually used.
Arch — lower. The bone is denser, but there is far less surface area to support anything removable and the nerve running through the jaw limits how aggressive surgery can be.
D5214 compared with its closest relatives
D5213 — Upper partial denture, cast metal framework: It is the upper-jaw version.
D5212 — Partial denture — lower, resin base: It specifies an acrylic resin base rather than a cast metal framework.
D5211 — Partial denture — upper, resin base: It specifies an acrylic resin base rather than a cast metal framework.
D5221 — Immediate upper partial denture (resin base): It specifies an acrylic resin base rather than a cast metal framework.
D5214 sits in a group of 13 codes in total; the remainder are linked at the foot of this page. The safest question to ask is not "what does this cost" but "which code is going on the claim". The first answer changes; the second decides the first.
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.
Questions about D5214
What does dental code D5214 mean?
On a claim, D5214 tells the insurer that what was performed was lower partial denture, cast metal framework.
What is the typical fee for D5214?
The usual range is $1,500–$3,500. Anything well outside it is worth a question rather than an assumption.
Does dental insurance cover D5214?
Yes on most policies, treated as major prosthodontic work at typically 50%. A waiting period on a new policy is the commonest reason it is not.
What is the difference between D5214 and D5213?
D5213 is upper partial denture, cast metal framework: it is the upper-jaw version. Everything else about the appointment is identical, so the record has to show that one detail for D5214 to be the defensible code.
Also known as: partial denture, removable partial, chrome denture, flexible denture, clasps.