Item code:
656
5
min read

656 - Removal of bridge or splint

ADA schedule description:

The removal of all, or part, of a bridge or splint.

Category:

Prosthodontics

Sub-category:

Crown and Bridge Repairs and Other Services
Last updated on
February 18, 2025

When is item code 656 (Removal of bridge or splint) typically used?

Removal of a bridge or splint is necessary when the restoration fails, causes discomfort, or interferes with further treatment. This may occur due to factors such as poor fit, recurrent decay, or changes in the abutment teeth’s structure. Careful removal is critical to avoid damaging the underlying teeth and to allow for proper evaluation and treatment planning.

How does item code 656 (Removal of bridge or splint) typically benefit the patient?

Allowing for proper evaluation and treatment of the abutment teeth prevents complications like fractures or infections. Removing the failed restoration enables the dentist to assess the teeth’s condition, address any underlying issues, and plan for a more suitable restoration. This proactive approach ensures the teeth remain healthy and functional, avoiding more invasive procedures in the future.

What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon's perspective on item code 656 (Removal of bridge or splint)?

Ensure careful removal to avoid damaging the abutment teeth or surrounding tissues. Use appropriate instruments and techniques to minimize trauma to the teeth and gums. Once the restoration is removed, thoroughly clean the area and evaluate the teeth for signs of decay, cracks, or other issues. Discuss alternative restorative options with the patient based on the findings.

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Miscellaneous

The miscellaneous category covers unique or specialized treatments that don’t fall under other specific categories. Examples include custom mouthguards, occlusal guards for bruxism (teeth grinding), sleep apnea appliances, and other patient-specific devices designed to improve comfort, function, or aesthetics.

General Services

General dental services encompass routine care and minor procedures essential for maintaining overall oral health. This includes fillings, extractions, emergency treatments, and basic restorations. These services address common issues like cavities, broken teeth, and gum irritation, ensuring patients maintain functional and healthy smiles.

Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatments are focused on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws to improve both function and appearance. Procedures typically involve braces, clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign), retainers, and other appliances that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Orthodontics not only enhances aesthetics but also improves bite functionality and reduces the risk of future dental problems.

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontic treatments involve replacing missing teeth and restoring damaged oral structures using artificial substitutes. Procedures include crowns, bridges, dentures, and dental implants. The goal is to restore functionality, improve speech and chewing ability, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the smile.

Restorative Services

Restorative services focus on repairing damaged or decayed teeth to restore their form, function, and strength. Common treatments include fillings, inlays/onlays, veneers, and bonding. These procedures aim to prolong the life of natural teeth and ensure they remain functional and visually appealing.

Endodontics

Endodontic treatments focus on the inner part of the tooth, particularly the pulp and root canals. Common procedures include root canal therapy, which removes infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth, and apicoectomy (surgical removal of the root tip). The goal is to preserve natural teeth while alleviating pain caused by infection or inflammation.

Oral Surgery

Oral surgery involves surgical procedures performed in or around the mouth and jaw. Treatments range from simple tooth extractions to more complex surgeries such as wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, bone grafting, and corrective jaw surgery. These procedures aim to restore function, alleviate pain, and enhance facial structure.

Periodontics

Periodontics deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases and conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. Services include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), gum grafts, pocket reduction surgery, and regenerative therapies. The primary objective is to prevent tooth loss and maintain healthy gums.

Preventive, Prophylactic and Bleaching Services

This category emphasizes preventive care to maintain optimal oral health and prevent future problems. It includes professional cleanings (prophylaxis), fluoride treatments, sealants, and patient education on proper hygiene practices. Additionally, bleaching services (teeth whitening) are offered to enhance the cosmetic appearance of teeth safely and effectively.

Diagnostic Services

Diagnostic services involve procedures aimed at identifying and assessing oral health conditions. These include clinical examinations, X-rays, digital imaging, biopsies, and other diagnostic tools that help in detecting diseases or abnormalities early on, allowing for timely intervention.
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5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had all four wisdom teeth out in the chair in January with Dr Nu... The procedure itself was unbelievably quick and both Dr Nu and her assistant were so lovely to me, it was far less scary than I anticipated!
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
I had all four wisdom teeth out in the chair in January with Dr Nu... The procedure itself was unbelievably quick and both Dr Nu and her assistant were so lovely to me, it was far less scary than I anticipated!
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
Dr Nu was amazing! Wisdom tooth out like it was nothing and recovery took a day.
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
Dr Nu was amazing! Wisdom tooth out like it was nothing and recovery took a day.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I needed a few teeth out for my orthodontic treatment. Dr Nu Dastaran and her nurses Emma and Poppy did an amazing job. Completely painless. I opted to do it over 2 sessions. The offices are state-of-the-art and everyone at OMFS is friendly and welcoming. This is my 3rd time at OMFS and I have no idea what the 1 Star reviewers are talking about.
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
I needed a few teeth out for my orthodontic treatment. Dr Nu Dastaran and her nurses Emma and Poppy did an amazing job. Completely painless. I opted to do it over 2 sessions. The offices are state-of-the-art and everyone at OMFS is friendly and welcoming. This is my 3rd time at OMFS and I have no idea what the 1 Star reviewers are talking about.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
Dr Nu was absolutely amazing. Last time I used CPAP in 20 years was the night before my surgery. She is an amazing surgeon, cured me of sleep apnea, and I feel amazing. Best thing I ever did.
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
Dr Nu was absolutely amazing. Last time I used CPAP in 20 years was the night before my surgery. She is an amazing surgeon, cured me of sleep apnea, and I feel amazing. Best thing I ever did.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had an incredible experience with Nu and the team for lower jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal. The whole process was smooth and Nu has such a kind and calming presence - she is so relaxed and it's hard to believe she's come straight from surgery most days.
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
I had an incredible experience with Nu and the team for lower jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal. The whole process was smooth and Nu has such a kind and calming presence - she is so relaxed and it's hard to believe she's come straight from surgery most days.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had an amazing experience with Dr.Nu who did my wisdom teeth surgery... I was pretty scared for this procedure but Dr.Nu is so nurturing that I felt comfortable and it was all over before I knew it, she is a great surgeon who takes extra care during the procedure, thanks Dr. Nu!
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
I had an amazing experience with Dr.Nu who did my wisdom teeth surgery... I was pretty scared for this procedure but Dr.Nu is so nurturing that I felt comfortable and it was all over before I knew it, she is a great surgeon who takes extra care during the procedure, thanks Dr. Nu!
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
My experience, from start to finish, was as pleasant as a wisdom tooth extraction could be! I had all four wisdom teeth removed under general anesthetic, and Dr. Mehrnoosh Dastaran was absolutely delightful. She made me feel completely at ease throughout the process, despite my nerves leading up to the procedure. Her professionalism and reassuring demeanor truly made a world of difference. Additionally, Waverley Private Hospital was an excellent facility, making the entire experience even more seamless and comfortable.
OMFS logo
AU
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
+61393473788
My experience, from start to finish, was as pleasant as a wisdom tooth extraction could be! I had all four wisdom teeth removed under general anesthetic, and Dr. Mehrnoosh Dastaran was absolutely delightful. She made me feel completely at ease throughout the process, despite my nerves leading up to the procedure. Her professionalism and reassuring demeanor truly made a world of difference. Additionally, Waverley Private Hospital was an excellent facility, making the entire experience even more seamless and comfortable.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
My experience, from start to finish, was as pleasant as a wisdom tooth extraction could be! I had all four wisdom teeth removed under general anesthetic, and Dr. Mehrnoosh Dastaran was absolutely delightful. She made me feel completely at ease throughout the process, despite my nerves leading up to the procedure. Her professionalism and reassuring demeanor truly made a world of difference. Additionally, Waverley Private Hospital was an excellent facility, making the entire experience even more seamless and comfortable.
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
My experience, from start to finish, was as pleasant as a wisdom tooth extraction could be! I had all four wisdom teeth removed under general anesthetic, and Dr. Mehrnoosh Dastaran was absolutely delightful. She made me feel completely at ease throughout the process, despite my nerves leading up to the procedure. Her professionalism and reassuring demeanor truly made a world of difference. Additionally, Waverley Private Hospital was an excellent facility, making the entire experience even more seamless and comfortable.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had all four wisdom teeth out in the chair in January with Dr Nu... The procedure itself was unbelievably quick and both Dr Nu and her assistant were so lovely to me, it was far less scary than I anticipated!
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
I had all four wisdom teeth out in the chair in January with Dr Nu... The procedure itself was unbelievably quick and both Dr Nu and her assistant were so lovely to me, it was far less scary than I anticipated!
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had an amazing experience with Dr.Nu who did my wisdom teeth surgery... I was pretty scared for this procedure but Dr.Nu is so nurturing that I felt comfortable and it was all over before I knew it, she is a great surgeon who takes extra care during the procedure, thanks Dr. Nu!
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
I had an amazing experience with Dr.Nu who did my wisdom teeth surgery... I was pretty scared for this procedure but Dr.Nu is so nurturing that I felt comfortable and it was all over before I knew it, she is a great surgeon who takes extra care during the procedure, thanks Dr. Nu!
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I needed a few teeth out for my orthodontic treatment. Dr Nu Dastaran and her nurses Emma and Poppy did an amazing job. Completely painless. I opted to do it over 2 sessions. The offices are state-of-the-art and everyone at OMFS is friendly and welcoming. This is my 3rd time at OMFS and I have no idea what the 1 Star reviewers are talking about.
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
I needed a few teeth out for my orthodontic treatment. Dr Nu Dastaran and her nurses Emma and Poppy did an amazing job. Completely painless. I opted to do it over 2 sessions. The offices are state-of-the-art and everyone at OMFS is friendly and welcoming. This is my 3rd time at OMFS and I have no idea what the 1 Star reviewers are talking about.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
Dr Nu was absolutely amazing. Last time I used CPAP in 20 years was the night before my surgery. She is an amazing surgeon, cured me of sleep apnea, and I feel amazing. Best thing I ever did.
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
Dr Nu was absolutely amazing. Last time I used CPAP in 20 years was the night before my surgery. She is an amazing surgeon, cured me of sleep apnea, and I feel amazing. Best thing I ever did.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
I had an incredible experience with Nu and the team for lower jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal. The whole process was smooth and Nu has such a kind and calming presence - she is so relaxed and it's hard to believe she's come straight from surgery most days.
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
I had an incredible experience with Nu and the team for lower jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal. The whole process was smooth and Nu has such a kind and calming presence - she is so relaxed and it's hard to believe she's come straight from surgery most days.
5
Dr Mehrnoosh (Nu) Dastaran
Dr Nu was amazing! Wisdom tooth out like it was nothing and recovery took a day.
+61393473788
Requires a consultation
OMFS logo
3000
Melbourne
Level 15/501 Swanston Street
Dr Nu was amazing! Wisdom tooth out like it was nothing and recovery took a day.