Mouth Sore ICD-10-CM Codes
Explore ICD-10-CM codes for Mouth Sores. Learn about common codes and billable statuses, and gain clinical insights in this comprehensive guide.
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What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Mouth Sores?
Specific ICD-10-CM codes classify mouth sores, oral ulcers, or stomatitis. Here are ten commonly used codes for Mouth sores, along with brief clinical descriptions:
K12.0 - Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: Used for recurrent mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, without other specified causes.
K12.1 - Other forms of stomatitis: Applied when there are mouth sores due to other causes not classified elsewhere.
K12.2 - Cellulitis and abscess of mouth: Utilized for mouth sores associated with cellulitis or abscess formation.
K12.3 - Oral mucositis (ulcerative): For ulcerative oral mucositis, it is often associated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
K12.8 - Other specified diseases of the mouth: Used for mouth sores related to specific diseases or conditions not covered by other codes.
K12.9 - Disease of the mouth, unspecified: Applied when the cause of mouth sores is unspecified or unknown.
B07.9 - Viral warts, unspecified: This code may apply if viral warts cause mouth sores.
K05.1 - Chronic gingivitis: Used when mouth sores are a symptom of chronic gingivitis.
K11.1 - Hypertrophy of salivary glands: This code can be applied if mouth sores result from hypertrophy of salivary glands.
K12.30 - Recurrent oral aphthae, unspecified: For recurrent, unspecified mouth ulcers without other specified causes.
Which Mouth Sore ICD Codes are Billable?
The billable status of the mentioned ICD-10 codes for Mouth Sores varies:
K12.0 - Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: Yes, billable. Medical expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis can be claimed.
K12.1 - Other forms of stomatitis: Yes, billable. Mouth sores due to causes not classified elsewhere are eligible for reimbursement.
K12.2 - Cellulitis and abscess of mouth: Yes, billable. Expenses associated with mouth sores linked to cellulitis or abscess formation can be claimed.
K12.3 - Oral mucositis (ulcerative): Yes, billable. This code covers ulcerative oral mucositis, often associated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
K12.8 - Other specified diseases of the mouth: Yes, billable. Mouth sores related to specific diseases or conditions not covered by other codes can be reimbursed.
K12.9 - Disease of the mouth, unspecified: Yes, billable. Expenses for diagnosing and treating mouth sores with an unspecified or unknown cause can be claimed.
B07.9 - Viral wart, unspecified: Yes, billable. If viral warts cause mouth sores, this code may be used for reimbursement.
K05.1 - Chronic gingivitis: Yes, billable. Mouth sores as a symptom of chronic gingivitis can be claimed.
K11.1 - Hypertrophy of salivary glands: Yes, billable. Expenses for treating mouth sores resulting from salivary gland hypertrophy can be reimbursed.
K12.30 - Recurrent oral aphthae, unspecified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses related to diagnosing and treating recurrent, unspecified mouth ulcers can be claimed.
Clinical Information
- A mouth sore, or oral ulcer, is a painful lesion that can occur inside the mouth on the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, or palate.
- Common causes of mouth sores include trauma (e.g., biting, dental work), viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex), and aphthous ulcers (canker sores).
- Assessment involves examining the sore's location, size, appearance, and duration, along with patient history.
- Sometimes, diagnostic tests, such as viral cultures or biopsies, may be needed to determine the underlying cause.
- Treatment options vary depending on the cause and may include topical medications, oral rinses, or antiviral drugs.
- Pain management is an essential aspect of care, often achieved with topical anesthetics or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Patients should be educated on oral hygiene and encouraged to avoid irritants like tobacco and spicy foods.
- Follow-up is essential to monitor healing and identify any recurrence or persistent sores.
- Healthcare practitioners should consider underlying systemic conditions in cases of recurrent or atypical mouth sores.
- Referral to specialists, such as oral surgeons or dermatologists, may be necessary for complex or refractory cases.
Synonyms Include
- Oral Ulcer
- Stomatitis
- Canker Sore
- Aphthous Ulcer
- Mouth Lesion
Commonly asked questions
Most mouth sores, such as canker sores, are not contagious. However, some oral ulcers caused by viral infections, like herpes simplex, can be infectious through direct contact.
Yes, mouth sores can be a symptom of underlying conditions such as autoimmune disorders (e.g., Behçet's disease), vitamin deficiencies, or gastrointestinal diseases.
Over-the-counter topical gels or ointments can provide relief. Avoiding spicy or acidic foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and using a soft toothbrush can also help manage discomfort. If mouth sores persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and treatment.
