FYI

Did you know that choosing the right code for diagnostic casts depends on how the model is created, not just how it’s used? Follow these best practices and you’ll be a diagnostic cast billing expert in no time.
 

What is a diagnostic cast?

According to the American Dental Association Glossary of Dental Terms, a diagnostic cast (also known as study model) is a replica of teeth and adjoining tissues created digitally or by a casting process (e.g., plaster into an impression).

Diagnostic casts are commonly used to evaluate relationships between oral tissues when planning restorations or appliances or to determine whether tissue treatment or modification is needed prior to taking a definitive impression to support optimal case acceptance and outcomes.
 

How should diagnostic casts be billed?

According to CDT 2026: Current Dental Terminology, CDT code D0470 is used for diagnostic casts, also known as diagnostic models or study models. However, the CDT 2026 Coding Companion says CDT code D0470 only applies when a physical model is created using traditional methods, such as impression molds poured to produce a stone cast model.
 

What if my office uses an intraoral scanner to create a digital model?

Different CDT codes apply when digital workflows are used for 3D surface scans (intraoral and extraoral) and any subsequent use.

For example:
 

• Capturing a direct intraoral digital model with an intraoral scanner should be billed using CDT code D0801 (3D intraoral surface scan — direct).
• If a digital model is reviewed virtually, e.g. for orthodontic simulation, it’s appropriate to use CDT code D0393 (virtual treatment simulation using 3D image volume or surface scan).
• If a digital model is later printed in your office to create a physical model, you should use CDT code D0396 (3D printing of a 3D dental surface scan). This code does not apply if the model is 3D printed by a third party dental lab.
   

Selecting the appropriate CDT code for the service performed is essential to support accurate billing, proper recordkeeping and efficient claims processing. For additional guidance on digital scans and simulation, the American Dental Association’s 3D Surface Scan Coding Guide is a helpful resource.