ICD-10 Coding for Doctor of Dental Medicine(K02.9, K05.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Doctor of Dental Medicine
K00-K14Primary Range
Diseases of oral cavity, salivary glands and jaws
This range includes conditions related to dental and oral health, which are relevant for dental practitioners.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K02.9 | Dental caries, unspecified | Use when caries are present but not further specified. |
|
| K05.3 | Chronic periodontitis | Use for chronic periodontitis with documented clinical findings. |
|
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 code for dental caries
Essential facts and insights about Doctor of Dental Medicine
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for doctor of dental medicine
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of visible cavitation or radiographic evidence
Applicable To
- Tooth decay
Excludes
- Caries due to radiation (K02.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Visible cavitation
- Radiographic evidence of enamel/dentin destruction
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure documentation specifies caries location and depth if known.
Coding Notes
- Ensure to document the presence of caries with supporting clinical findings.
K05.3 - Chronic periodontitis
Use for chronic periodontitis with documented clinical findings.
Applicable To
- Chronic gum disease
Excludes
- Aggressive periodontitis (K05.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Probing depths ≥4mm
- Radiographic bone loss
- Bleeding on probing
Coding Notes
Document detailed periodontal charting and radiographic findings.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Doctor of Dental Medicine to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K02.9.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'occlusal caries extending into dentin'., Include diagnostic tools used.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims or reduced payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify the procedure performed matches the CDT code description.
Impact
High frequency of audits in periodontal procedures.
Mitigation Strategy
Maintain detailed and accurate 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 Doctor of Dental Medicine, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Doctor of Dental Medicine
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Doctor of Dental Medicine. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic periodontitis management
Specialty: DentistryRequired Elements
- Subjective patient complaints
- Objective clinical findings
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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