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FYI

Partnering with you to help create healthy smiles

Denture claims: Why insertion date matters

Aug 12, 2026

By Delta Dental

Using the correct date of service supports clean claim submissions, makes benefit reviews more accurate and reduces avoidable denials. This is especially important for multi-stage procedures such as dentures and other removable prosthetic appliances.
 

Which date should I use for denture claims?

For multi-stage procedures, the claim should be submitted using the insertion date, also called the completion or seat date. For dentures, this means the date the denture is placed in the patient’s mouth. The date of service should not be the preparation date, impression date or the date the case is sent to the lab.
 

Why the insertion date matters

Because benefits and eligibility may be affected by coverage start dates, waiting periods or other procedures, the exact date of insertion may change a patient’s eligibility. Using the correct insertion date makes accurate benefit and eligibility reviews easier.

Submitting claims with the correct insertion date can also help reduce avoidable denials, like situations where extraction claims are submitted after a denture claim in the same quadrant or arch.
 

Faster, more accurate processing

Taking a moment to confirm the correct date before submitting the claim can help support timely, accurate claims processing and a smoother experience for both your office and your patients.

Remember:

  • Bill dentures and other multi-stage procedures on the insertion date.
  • Use the denture insertion date as the date of service.
  • Do not use the preparation, impression or lab date as the date of service.
  • Refer to the Dentist Handbook in Provider Tools for additional guidance.