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Cone beam computed tomography has changed how dental professionals diagnose and plan treatment. D0367 covers a specific type of 3D imaging that focuses on smaller areas of the mouth. This article explains when to use dental code d0367 and how to document it correctly.
Oct 24, 2025
What is Dental Code D0367?
D0367 refers to cone beam CT (CBCT) capture and interpretation with a limited field of view, covering an area smaller than a single arch. The scan provides 3D imaging of a focused region, typically used for detailed views of specific teeth, implant sites, or localized pathology.
Dentists and staff often call this "limited CBCT," "small FOV scan," or "focused cone beam." The key distinction is the field of view; this code applies when imaging covers less than one complete dental arch.
When is D0367 Used?
D0367 is appropriate when detailed 3D imaging of a specific area provides diagnostic value beyond what traditional radiographs offer. Understanding which clinical situations warrant this code helps you bill accurately and avoid denials.
Common Clinical Scenarios
D0367 provides the detailed 3D information you need for precise diagnosis and treatment planning in focused areas. These scenarios represent the most frequent clinical applications where limited field CBCT imaging adds significant value beyond conventional radiographs.
Implant planning for single sites. When placing one or two implants, a limited CBCT shows bone quality, dimensions, and proximity to vital structures without imaging the entire jaw.
Endodontic evaluation. Root canal complications, extra canals, or periapical pathology often require 3D visualization of individual teeth and surrounding bone.
Impacted teeth assessment. Evaluating the position of a single impacted tooth and its relationship to adjacent roots benefits from focused 3D imaging.
TMJ analysis on one side. Unilateral temporomandibular joint problems can be assessed with a limited scan focused on the affected joint.
Localized pathology. Small cysts, tumors, or bone lesions in a confined area warrant detailed imaging without exposing the patient to a larger field scan.
When D0367 is NOT Appropriate
This code doesn't fit every CBCT situation. Use a different code when imaging covers a full arch or larger area. Scans of complete upper or lower arches fall under D0366 (one arch) or D0368 (multiple arches).
Planning for several implants across an entire jaw requires broader imaging and a different code. Bilateral TMJ evaluation comparing both joints requires imaging beyond what D0367 covers. If you're only interpreting images taken elsewhere, use D0388 instead.
Billing and Insurance Considerations
Strong documentation, understanding coverage rules, and avoiding common errors keep your claims processing smoothly. This section covers what you need to know about billing D0367.
Documentation Requirements
Strong documentation supports your claim and shows medical necessity. Include clinical notes explaining why CBCT was needed. Document specific diagnostic questions that 2D radiographs couldn't answer, such as "Need to assess bone width for implant site #19" or "Evaluate extent of external resorption on tooth #8."
Note exactly what area was imaged—specific teeth, quadrant, or anatomical region. Record measurements, observations, and how the scan influenced treatment planning in your interpretation findings.
Insurance Coverage
Most dental plans cover D0367 when medically necessary, but coverage varies widely. Frequency limitations often apply—typically once per site every 36 months.
Plans may require pre-authorization for CBCT imaging. Submit clinical justification and 2D radiographs showing why additional imaging is needed. Some insurers bundle CBCT with surgical procedures rather than covering it separately as a diagnostic service.
Medical insurance sometimes covers CBCT when imaging relates to medical conditions like TMJ disorders, trauma, or pathology. This requires proper coding through medical channels and clear documentation linking the scan to medical necessity.
Common Billing Mistakes
Small errors in coding or documentation can delay payment or trigger denials. Awareness of these common mistakes helps your front office staff identify issues before submitting claims.
Using D0367 for full-arch scans. Billing a limited FOV code when you captured a complete arch creates claim denials. Match the code to the actual field of view.
Billing without adequate documentation. Claims fail when clinical notes don't explain why CBCT was necessary or what diagnostic questions it answered.
Submitting claims too frequently. Billing D0367 multiple times within the limitation period triggers denials. Check the patient's history before ordering new scans.
Incorrect modifier usage. When imaging multiple limited areas in one appointment, append appropriate modifiers to indicate separate sites.
Common Questions
How often can D0367 be billed? Most insurance plans allow D0367 once per site every 24 to 36 months. The specific area being imaged determines whether it's the same site. Imaging different teeth or regions may not trigger frequency limitations.
Can I bill D0367 for multiple teeth on the same day? You can bill for multiple limited scans if they cover distinct, non-overlapping areas. Add modifiers to indicate separate sites and document each area's medical necessity.
What defines the waiting period? Carriers measure waiting periods from the previous scan date. A scan on January 15, 2025 with a 36-month limitation becomes eligible again on January 15, 2028.
Why was my D0367 claim denied? Common denial reasons include insufficient documentation, frequency limitations, lack of pre-authorization, or the scan being deemed not medically necessary. Review the denial explanation and determine if you can appeal with additional clinical justification.
Does D0367 include the written report? Yes, this code covers both capturing the scan and providing a written interpretation. You can't separately bill for the report.
Can I bill D0367 and a surgical code on the same day? Typically yes, since D0367 is diagnostic while surgical codes are treatment. However, some plans bundle imaging with certain procedures, so verify coverage before billing.
What qualifies as "limited" field of view? Limited FOV means the scan covers less than one complete dental arch. Typical dimensions range from 4cm x 4cm to 8cm x 8cm, depending on the CBCT unit and clinical need.
Does patient positioning affect the code? No, the code is determined by the area imaged, not how the patient is positioned during the scan.
Can general dentists bill D0367? Any licensed dentist can bill D0367 if they capture and interpret CBCT scans within their scope of practice. Some states require specific training or certification for CBCT use.
Getting D0367 Right
D0367 fills a specific role in your diagnostic toolkit. Use it when you need detailed 3D information about a focused area and can document why conventional radiographs aren't sufficient. Match your code to your actual field of view, maintain thorough clinical notes, and verify coverage rules before capturing the scan.
Accurate billing protects your practice and keeps patient care moving forward. When staff understand the clinical and administrative requirements behind codes like D0367, your office runs more smoothly. Teero helps dental practices maintain consistent operations by connecting you with experienced hygienists who fit your workflow and support your team during busy periods or unexpected absences. Sign up for Teero today to keep workflows running smoothly.