What D9945 means

D9945 covers a custom occlusal guard made of soft material that covers a full arch. "D" is dental, "99" is the adjunctive general services group, and "45" is this soft full-arch guard. It's a flexible, cushioned appliance custom-made from an impression or scan, worn to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching.

Soft guards are often chosen for milder bruxism or for patients who find a rigid hard guard uncomfortable to wear. The cushioned material can feel easier to get used to, though soft guards generally don't last as long as hard ones and may be less ideal for heavy grinders.

The related codes are D9944 (hard, full arch) and D9946 (hard, partial arch). One billing nuance: a guard with both hard and soft components is generally reported by its hard occlusal surface, so a hard guard with a soft liner is coded as D9944, not D9945. The code should match the appliance actually delivered.

When it's typically used

D9945 is reported when a custom soft, full-arch night guard is made to protect teeth from grinding — often for milder bruxism or patients who can't tolerate a hard guard.

How much does D9945 cost?

A custom soft night guard is a moderate fee, often roughly 200 to 700 USD per arch depending on region and lab, typically a bit less than a hard guard because the lab work and longevity differ.

Is D9945 covered by insurance?

Like other night guards, it's usually a major service covered around half after the deductible when grinding is documented, up to the annual maximum, with replacement often limited to every few years. Hard guards (D9944) sometimes reimburse slightly higher due to lab cost and durability.

Frequently asked questions

What is the D9945 dental code?

It's a custom soft occlusal guard (night guard) covering a full arch — a flexible, cushioned appliance that protects teeth from grinding.

What's the difference between D9945 and D9944?

D9945 is soft; D9944 is hard. Soft guards suit milder grinding or patients who find hard guards uncomfortable, but hard guards tend to last longer.

How much does a D9945 soft night guard cost?

Often around 200 to 700 USD per arch depending on location and lab, typically a bit less than a hard guard.

Is a soft or hard night guard better?

It depends. Soft guards are easier to get used to and suit milder cases; hard guards are more durable and often preferred for heavier grinding. Your dentist advises based on your case.

How is a hard guard with a soft liner coded?

By its hard occlusal surface — so a hard guard with a soft liner is reported as D9944, not D9945. The code matches the appliance actually delivered.

Does insurance cover a soft night guard?

Usually as a major service at around half after the deductible when grinding is documented, with replacement often limited to every few years.

This page is an independent, plain-language explanation for general information only. It is not billing, coding, or clinical advice. For the official CDT descriptor and current-year wording, refer to the American Dental Association.