D8070 Dental Code
Orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in improving oral health, function, and aesthetics. Among the various dental billing codes, D8070 stands out as the code for comprehensive orthodontic treatment—a full correction of malocclusion involving braces or aligners for both arches.
This guide will provide an in-depth look at the D8070 dental code, covering its scope, treatment process, insurance implications, and more. Whether you’re a dental professional, a patient considering orthodontics, or an insurance provider, this article will clarify everything you need to know.
2. What is the D8070 Dental Code?
The D8070 code is used in dental billing to denote comprehensive orthodontic treatment for adolescent patients. It applies to cases requiring full braces or aligners to correct malocclusion (misaligned teeth and jaws).
Key Features of D8070:
- Covers treatment for permanent dentition (adolescents with most or all adult teeth).
- Includes diagnostic records, appliance placement, adjustments, and retention.
- Typically involves both upper and lower arches.
- Used for cases requiring full correction rather than limited or interceptive treatment.
3. Understanding Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment
Comprehensive orthodontics under D8070 involves a multi-phase approach:
Phases of Treatment:
- Diagnostic Phase
- Clinical examination
- X-rays (panoramic, cephalometric)
- Impressions or digital scans
- Photographs
- Active Treatment Phase
- Braces (metal, ceramic, or lingual) or clear aligners
- Regular adjustments (every 4-8 weeks)
- Monitoring tooth movement and bite correction
- Retention Phase
- Removal of braces
- Placement of retainers (fixed or removable)
- Long-term follow-up to prevent relapse
4. Who Needs Comprehensive Orthodontics?
Patients who may require D8070 treatment include those with:
- Severe crowding or spacing
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Impacted teeth
- Jaw misalignment (Class II or Class III malocclusion)
Age Considerations:
- Best for adolescents (12-18 years) when most permanent teeth have erupted.
- Adults can also receive comprehensive treatment but may require additional procedures (e.g., extractions, surgery).
5. Types of Orthodontic Cases Covered Under D8070
| Case Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Class I Malocclusion | Mild crowding/spacing with normal bite but misaligned teeth. |
| Class II Malocclusion | Overjet (protruding upper teeth). |
| Class III Malocclusion | Underbite (lower teeth ahead of upper teeth). |
| Open Bite | Front teeth don’t touch when biting. |
| Deep Bite | Upper teeth excessively overlap lower teeth. |
6. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning for D8070 Cases
A thorough diagnosis includes:
- Clinical exam (checking jaw alignment, tooth positioning).
- Imaging (X-rays, CBCT scans if needed).
- Digital models (for precise treatment planning).
Treatment Plan Components:
- Extraction vs. Non-Extraction Approach
- Appliance Selection (braces vs. Invisalign)
- Estimated Treatment Duration (18-36 months)
7. Orthodontic Appliances Used in Comprehensive Treatment
- Traditional Metal Braces
- Ceramic Braces (less visible)
- Lingual Braces (behind teeth)
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
8. Step-by-Step Process of D8070 Treatment
- Initial Consultation
- Records Appointment (impressions, X-rays)
- Appliance Placement
- Monthly Adjustments
- Debonding & Retainer Placement
9. Duration and Expected Outcomes
- Average Treatment Time: 18-30 months.
- Expected Results: Properly aligned teeth, improved bite, enhanced facial aesthetics.
10. Cost and Insurance Coverage for D8070
- Cost Range: 3,000−3,000−8,000 (varies by case complexity).
- Insurance Coverage: Many plans cover a portion (typically 1,000−1,000−2,500 lifetime max).
11. Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Poor Compliance (Aligners) | Reminders, tracking apps. |
| Discomfort | Wax for braces, OTC pain relievers. |
| Broken Brackets | Emergency dental visit. |
12. Retention and Aftercare
- Retainers are mandatory (6 months full-time, then nighttime indefinitely).
- Regular dental check-ups to monitor stability.
13. D8070 vs. Other Orthodontic Codes (Comparison Table)
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| D8070 | Comprehensive orthodontics (adolescent). |
| D8080 | Comprehensive orthodontics (adult). |
| D8670 | Periodic orthodontic adjustment. |
14. FAQs About D8070 Dental Code
Q: Does D8070 cover Invisalign?
A: Yes, if it’s a full comprehensive case.
Q: How long does D8070 treatment take?
A: Typically 18-30 months.
Q: Can adults use D8070?
A: No, adults use D8080 instead.
15. Conclusion
The D8070 dental code represents comprehensive orthodontic treatment for adolescents, addressing severe malocclusions with braces or aligners. Proper diagnosis, appliance selection, and retention are key to success. Understanding insurance coverage and treatment expectations helps patients make informed decisions.
16. Additional Resources
- American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) – www.aaoinfo.org
- Invisalign Official Site – www.invisalign.com
- PubMed Research on Orthodontics – www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
