Dental Codes for Digital Scans: Billing, Reimbursement, and Best Practices

Digital dentistry has revolutionized the way dental professionals diagnose, plan, and execute treatments. Among the most significant advancements is the adoption of intraoral scanners (IOS), which replace traditional putty impressions with highly accurate digital models.

Digital scans offer numerous benefits:

• Improved accuracy (reducing remakes)

• Enhanced patient comfort (no gagging from impression materials)

• Faster turnaround times for crowns, aligners, and implants

• Better communication with labs and specialists

However, many dental practices struggle with proper coding and billing for digital scans, leading to claim denials or underpayment. This guide will explore the correct Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes, insurance reimbursement strategies, and documentation best practices.

2. Understanding Dental Codes: An Overview

Dental procedures are categorized using CDT codes, maintained by the American Dental Association (ADA). These codes ensure standardized billing across insurance providers.

Key CDT Code Categories for Digital Dentistry

3. Common Dental Codes for Digital Scans

D0470 – Diagnostic Casts

• Used for study models created from digital scans.

• Often required for orthodontic cases and prosthodontic planning.

• Some insurers require manual casts for reimbursement, so verify policies.

D0600 – 3D Photographic Image

• Covers intraoral scans used for smile design, implant planning, or sleep apnea devices.

• Some payers classify this under diagnostic imaging rather than impressions.

D1999 – Unspecified Diagnostic Procedure

• A temporary code for new digital technologies not yet assigned a specific CDT code.

• Requires detailed documentation to justify medical necessity.

D3351 – Implant Scan Body

• Used when taking a digital impression for an implant crown.

• Must include implant body serial number in documentation.

4. Digital Impressions vs. Traditional Impressions: Coding Differences

5. How to Properly Bill for Digital Scans

• Verify insurance coverage before scanning (some payers still require traditional impressions).

• Use the most specific CDT code (e.g., D3351 for implants).

• Include supporting documentation (radiographs, clinical notes).

6. Insurance Reimbursement for Digital Scans

• Medicare & Medicaid: Limited coverage; often requires prior authorization.

• Private PPOs: Increasingly covering digital scans (check individual policies).

• HMO Plans: May deny digital scans unless deemed “medically necessary.”

7. Best Practices for Documenting Digital Scans

• Record the scanner model and software used.

• Attach digital files to patient records (for audits).

• Link scans to treatment plans (e.g., crown prep, implant placement).

8. Future Trends in Digital Dentistry and Coding Updates

• AI-assisted scanning may lead to new CDT codes.

• Teledentistry integration could require remote scan billing guidelines.

9. FAQs on Dental Codes for Digital Scans

Q1: Can I bill D0600 for Invisalign scans?
A: Yes, if used for diagnostic purposes. However, some insurers prefer D8090 (orthodontic records).

Q2: Why was my D3351 claim denied?
A: Some insurers require pre-authorization or proof of implant placement.

Q3: Is D1999 reimbursable?
A: Rarely—submit with strong documentation and expect appeals.

10. Conclusion

Properly coding digital scans ensures maximum reimbursement and compliance. Always verify insurer policies, document thoroughly, and stay updated on CDT changes. As digital dentistry evolves, coding practices must adapt to reflect new technologies.

11. Additional Resources

• ADA CDT Code Manual

• AAID Digital Implant Guidelines

• Dental Billing & Coding Webinars