Substance use screening in dental visits: when SBIRT is billable
Dental teams can screen, document and refer with confidence, but SBIRT billing depends on payer rules, provider type, code choice and time-based documentation.
The two codes
| Code | What it reports | Billed with |
|---|---|---|
D9995 | Synchronous, real-time encounter | The clinical service, e.g. a limited evaluation (D0140) |
D9996 | Asynchronous; information stored and forwarded for later review | The clinical service reviewed |
Check these rules first
- Who may deliver care under general or remote supervision in your state
- Whether Medicaid pays for D9995/D9996 and at what rate
- Consent and documentation requirements for virtual visits
- Licensure where the patient is located
- A HIPAA-compliant platform with a business associate agreement
Photo: Kampus Production / PexelsDocumentation that holds up
Record the modality, patient location, participants, consent, images/records reviewed, findings, and the plan (including any in-office referral). Keep everything in one auditable record.
How Dental Billing Community helps
We map codes by setting and payer, build documentation templates and track referrals from virtual visits to in-office care.
Photo: Arda Kaykısız / PexelsFrequently asked questions
Can teledentistry be billed alone?
Teledentistry codes describe the delivery method; they are reported with the clinical service performed.
Do all plans cover teledentistry?
No. Coverage varies by payer and state — verify first.
Sources & further reading
Educational content only — not legal, coding-certification or payer-specific advice. Code sets (CDT, CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS) and payer policies change; always confirm against the current code manual and the patient's plan. CDT is © American Dental Association. CPT is © American Medical Association.
