Find information on tooth pain diagnosis, including ICD-10 codes (K08.8), dental pain management, odontalgia symptoms, and differential diagnosis. Learn about clinical documentation best practices for toothaches, pulpalgia, periodontal abscess, cracked tooth syndrome, and temporomandibular disorders TMD. Explore resources for healthcare professionals regarding coding for dental procedures, dental charting, and patient education related to oral health and tooth pain causes.
Also known as
Disorders of tooth development and eruption
Includes abnormalities in tooth formation, eruption, and shedding.
Diseases of hard tissues of teeth
Covers conditions affecting enamel, dentin, and cementum, often causing pain.
Dental caries
Cavities and decay can cause tooth sensitivity and pain.
Other diseases of pulp and periapical tissues
Includes pulpitis and apical periodontitis, common causes of toothache.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the tooth pain due to trauma?
Yes
Is there a fracture?
No
Is it due to eruption?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Tooth Pain |
Dental Caries |
Periapical Abscess |
Coding K08.8 (Toothache, unspecified) lacks specificity for accurate reimbursement and quality reporting. CDI should query for detail.
Medical necessity audits may deny claims for dental-related tooth pain if not linked to a medical condition. Clear documentation is crucial.
Coding tooth pain as a symptom without underlying diagnosis risks claim denial. CDI must clarify definitive diagnosis for accurate coding.
Patient presents with chief complaint of tooth pain, toothache, dental pain, or odontalgia. Onset, duration, location, character, aggravating and alleviating factors of the tooth pain were documented. Pain quality described as sharp, dull, throbbing, aching, constant, or intermittent. Patient reports associated symptoms including sensitivity to hot or cold, sweet or sour, chewing or biting pressure, as well as possible swelling, gum pain, facial pain, headache, jaw pain, ear pain, or fever. Clinical examination included visual inspection, palpation, percussion, and mobility testing of the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. Findings may include caries, fracture, abscess, periodontal disease, inflammation, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Radiographic imaging, such as dental x-rays or panoramic radiographs, may be obtained for further evaluation. Diagnosis of dental caries, pulpitis, periapical abscess, periodontal abscess, cracked tooth syndrome, or impacted tooth was considered. Treatment plan discussed with patient and may include pain management with analgesics such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, dental restoration, root canal therapy, extraction, antibiotics, referral to specialist such as endodontist, periodontist, or oral surgeon, or follow-up care as needed. Patient education provided regarding oral hygiene, dietary recommendations, and prevention of future dental problems. Patient expressed understanding of the diagnosis, treatment plan, and potential risks and benefits.