D9938 Fab removable appliance
Also known as: appliance fabrication, custom guard making, retainer construction
Fabrication or construction of a removable appliance such as an occlusal guard, retainer, or other patient-worn orthodontic or therapeutic device.
In Plain Language
making your custom mouth guard; creating your retainer
Clinical Context
Used when custom fabricating removable appliances for patients, including occlusal guards for bruxism, retainers, sleep apnea appliances, or other therapeutic intraoral devices.
RVU Information
CPT D9938 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. This is typical for supply, drug, and equipment codes — reimbursement is based on Average Sales Price (ASP), fee schedules, or payer contracts rather than the RVU system.
Billing & Documentation
Dental codes (CDT codes) require documentation of the tooth number(s) or area treated, clinical findings, and the procedure performed. Pre-authorization may be required for major restorative, prosthodontic, and oral surgery procedures. Include radiographs when supporting medical necessity.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code D9938?
CPT D9938 (Fab removable appliance) is a D Codes (Dental) code. Fabrication or construction of a removable appliance such as an occlusal guard, retainer, or other patient-worn orthodontic or therapeutic device.
Is D9938 covered by dental insurance?
CPT D9938 is a dental procedure code used by Prosthodontics, Orthodontics, General Dentistry. Used when custom fabricating removable appliances for patients, including occlusal guards for bruxism, retainers, sleep apnea appliances, or other therapeutic intraoral devices. Coverage depends on your dental insurance plan.
When is CPT D9938 used?
Used when custom fabricating removable appliances for patients, including occlusal guards for bruxism, retainers, sleep apnea appliances, or other therapeutic intraoral devices.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.