Dental Caries ICD-10-CM Codes
Discover the most commonly used ICD-10 codes for dental caries, their clinical descriptions, and their significance in dental diagnosis and billing procedures.
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Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Dental Caries
Dental caries, or tooth decay or cavities, are common dental ailments with several corresponding ICD-10 codes. These codes accurately represent the specific nature and location of the decay. Here are some of the most frequently used codes:
- K02.51: This code is used when dental caries are found on the pit and fissure surfaces and are confined solely to the enamel. The pit and fissure surfaces refer to the grooves and depressions found on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- K02.6: Representing dental caries on smooth surfaces, this code is utilized when decay forms on your teeth' flat, smooth surfaces. These surfaces are typically the sides and front of the teeth that do not engage in chewing.
- K02.9: A general code, K02.9 stands for unspecified dental caries. It's employed when the specific type or location of the cavity is not clearly identified.
- K02.3: This code indicates arrested dental caries, referring to cases where the progression of tooth decay has been successfully halted due to treatment or natural factors.
- K02.0: Representing caries that are limited to the enamel, this code is similar to K02.51 but does not specify the tooth's surface where the decay is located.
- K02.1: This code signifies dental caries of the dentine, used when the decay has progressed beyond the enamel to reach the dentin layer, which lies beneath the enamel.
Each of these codes plays a crucial role in accurately diagnosing and billing dental caries. Understanding them can aid healthcare providers in delivering precise and effective treatment.
For more detailed information and an in-depth understanding of these codes, visit our Dental Caries ICD Codes resources and watch this explainer video below.
These resources are useful for healthcare providers and patients seeking to understand the intricacies of dental caries coding.
Which Dental Caries ICD codes are Billable
- K02.51: Yes
- K02.6: Yes
- K02.9: Yes
- K02.3: Yes
- K02.0: Yes
- K02.1: Yes
Clinical Information
- Dental caries is a prevalent oral health issue that results from converting food sugars into acid by bacteria in your mouth. This acid then attacks the teeth, initiating the decay process.
- The decay process usually begins with the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. If left untreated, it can penetrate deeper, reaching the dentin and eventually the tooth's pulp. This progression can cause significant dental complications.
- Dental caries often present with toothache and sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. Visible holes or pits in the teeth are also common indicators of tooth decay.
- Regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and routine dental check-ups can help prevent dental caries. Additionally, a diet low in sugar and regular use of fluoride-containing products can further protect against tooth decay.
Synonyms Include:
- Cavities
- Tooth decay
- Dental decay
- Carious lesions
- Dentine decay
Commonly asked questions
Use a Dental Caries ICD code when diagnosing a patient with tooth decay or cavities during a dental exam.
Common treatments include fillings, crowns, root canals, and, in severe cases, tooth extraction.
A diagnosis code for Dental Caries represents the specific type and location of tooth decay a patient has been diagnosed with. These codes are used for billing and medical records.
