ICD-10 Coding for Dental Conditions(K02.51, K05.10)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dental Conditions. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Dental Conditions
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K02.51 | Dental caries on pit/fissure surface penetrating dentin | Use when caries extend into dentin, confirmed by radiographic evidence. |
|
| K05.10 | Chronic gingivitis, plaque-induced | Use when gingivitis is confirmed to be plaque-induced. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 codes for dental caries
Essential facts and insights about Dental Conditions
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dental
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Caries visible on radiograph penetrating dentin
Applicable To
- Caries extending into dentin
Excludes
- Caries limited to enamel
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Visible cavitation
- Positive explorer catch
- Dentin involvement on radiograph
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if caries do not penetrate dentin
Coding Notes
- Ensure radiographic confirmation of dentin involvement.
K05.10 - Chronic gingivitis, plaque-induced
Use when gingivitis is confirmed to be plaque-induced.
Applicable To
- Bleeding on probing
- Erythema
- Plaque accumulation
Excludes
- Gingivitis due to systemic conditions
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Bleeding on probing
- Erythema
- Plaque accumulation
Coding Notes
Document plaque presence and gingival inflammation.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Dental Conditions to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K02.51.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis of gingivitis type., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document plaque presence, Use standardized periodontal charting
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced payments., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the location and extent of caries.
Impact
High risk of audit for unspecified dental codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes with detailed documentation.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Dental Conditions, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Dental Conditions
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dental Conditions. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Routine dental exam with findings
Specialty: DentistryRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- Clinical findings
- Diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Dental Conditions? Ask your questions below.