D7963 — Frenuloplasty
D7963 is the reconstructive version, in which the frenum is not simply cut but reshaped, repositioned and sutured.
This code belongs to a set of four covering frenectomy. The clinical detail lives in the frenectomy guide; the code-level detail is here.
Below is what the code actually specifies, the fee range to expect, how dental benefits normally handle it, and the specific differences between it and the codes it is most often confused with.
Where the line falls between D7963 and the rest
D7962 — Lingual frenectomy (frenulectomy) — tongue-tie release: It releases a tongue-tie, cutting the band under the tongue that is restricting its movement, feeding or speech.
D7961 — Buccal / labial frenectomy (frenulectomy): It releases the band of tissue between lip and gum, the fold that can drag the gum away or hold a gap open between the front teeth.
D7960 — Frenulectomy (frenectomy) — retired code, replaced by D7961/D7962: It was the single frenectomy code before the code set split it by site, and is retired in favour of D7961 and D7962.
Those three codes and D7963 are the whole group — nothing else describes this procedure. Reviewers compare the narrative against the code rather than the other way round, so the question worth asking is what the notes will say.
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 |
|---|---|
| D7963 | Frenuloplasty — this page |
| D7960 | Frenulectomy (frenectomy) — retired code, replaced by D7961/D7962 |
| D7961 | Buccal / labial frenectomy (frenulectomy) |
| D7962 | Lingual frenectomy (frenulectomy) — tongue-tie release |
Questions about D7963
What does dental code D7963 mean?
On a claim, D7963 tells the insurer that what was performed was frenuloplasty.
How much does D7963 cost?
Plan for $450–$1,200 as the full fee. Two practices a few miles apart can sit at opposite ends of that range for the same work.
How do dental plans handle D7963?
Plans generally pay it as basic / major oral surgery treatment, typically 50–80%, subject to whatever is left of your maximum for the year.
What is the difference between D7963 and D7962?
D7962 is lingual frenectomy (frenulectomy), tongue-tie release: it releases a tongue-tie, cutting the band under the tongue that is restricting its movement, feeding or speech. These are not two versions of one procedure: they are separate treatments, and a plan assesses each on its own merits.
Also known as: frenectomy, tongue tie, lip tie, frenulum, midline diastema.