Dental Billing for In-Office 3D Printing: What You Need to Know

Published by the American Dental Coders Association

In-office 3D printing is revolutionizing modern dentistry. From surgical guides and orthodontic models to night guards and crowns, dental practices are increasingly adopting in-house printing for faster turnaround and improved patient experiences.

But while the technology is cutting-edge, billing and coding for these services is still catching up. Many dental professionals are unsure how to accurately bill for in-office printed devices — especially when it comes to CDT codes, documentation, and payer guidelines.

This article breaks down what dental billing specialists need to know to properly code, document, and bill for 3D printed services provided in-office.

What Procedures Use In-Office 3D Printing?

3D printing in dentistry isn’t just for labs anymore. Today’s offices use printers to fabricate:

• Surgical guides for implants
• Orthodontic models and aligners
• Occlusal guards and night guards
• Denture bases and bite rims
• Temporary crowns and bridges
• Custom trays or stents

Each printed device or model must be documented and billed based on the purpose it serves — not just the fact it was 3D printed.

CDT Codes for 3D Printed Devices

As of now, there are no CDT codes that specifically reference 3D printing. However, you should bill the procedure being performed, not the technology used.

For example:

• D6190 – Radiographic/surgical implant index
• D8680 – Orthodontic retention appliance
• D9944 – Occlusal guard, hard appliance, full arch
• D2971 – Temporary crown
• D5912 – Nasal stent
• D5984 – Surgical stent

Use D0999 (unspecified procedure, by report) only when no other CDT code accurately applies.

Documentation Tips for In-Office Printing

• Tooth number or arch (if applicable)
• Diagnosis and purpose of the appliance
• Design and delivery notes
• Mention of in-house fabrication via 3D printing
• Materials, time, and device function (especially when using D0999)

Payer Reimbursement Challenges

Most payers reimburse based on what the appliance does, not how it was fabricated. In-office 3D printed devices are billed under the appropriate CDT code for the clinical use — not a “3D printing” code.

Be aware:

• Payers may deny claims without clear justification
• Patients should sign off on costs for elective or esthetic appliances
• Pre-authorizations can help clarify reimbursement expectations

When to Use D0999

Use D0999 only if:

• No standard CDT code applies to the printed item
• The procedure or device is novel or custom-designed

Include in your narrative:

• Diagnosis and treatment plan
• Description of device and its function
• Reason no standard code fits

3D Printing for Same-Day Appliances

CDT coding is based on the service provided — not whether the device was printed same-day. Use standard codes such as:

• D9944 – Occlusal guard
• D2971 – Temporary crown

Document the same-day delivery in notes, but do not bill separate charges unless allowed by payer policy.

Medical Cross-Coding for 3D Printing

Some medically necessary printed items may be eligible for cross-coding under medical insurance. Examples include:

• TMJ appliances
• Surgical guides for trauma or implant planning

Pair with appropriate ICD-10 and CPT codes, and confirm documentation supports medical necessity.

Best Practices for 3D Printing Reimbursement

• Bill the procedure, not the technology
• Use D0999 sparingly and with strong narratives
• Document every step, from design to placement
• Confirm insurance benefits ahead of time
• Educate the patient on any financial responsibilities
• Retain production records and design logs

Train Your Team with ADCA

Stay ahead of coding trends with expert training through the American Dental Coders Association. Our online certification programs cover restorative coding, documentation, and advanced technologies like 3D printing.

• Certified Dental Billing Specialist (CDBS)
• Certified Dental Coder (CDC)
• Dual Certification Program
• CDBS Exam
• CDC Exam

Conclusion

As 3D printing becomes a standard part of dental care, dental billers and coders must be equipped with the right knowledge and tools. By focusing on clinical function, documentation, and payer requirements, you can ensure accurate billing and avoid costly denials.

Get the support and education you need from the American Dental Coders Association — your trusted resource in dental billing and coding excellence.