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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK03.6

K03.6

Billable

Deposits [accretions] on teeth

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 K03.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of deposits [accretions] on teeth.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Deposits or accretions on teeth, classified under K03.6, refer to the buildup of substances such as calculus, plaque, or stains on the dental surfaces. These deposits can lead to various dental issues, including caries, periodontal disease, and aesthetic concerns. The primary anatomical structures involved are the enamel, dentin, and cementum of the teeth. The disease progression typically begins with the accumulation of plaque, a soft, sticky film of bacteria, which can mineralize into calculus if not removed through proper oral hygiene. As deposits accumulate, they can irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis and, if untreated, progress to periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss. Diagnostic considerations include visual examination, radiographic assessment, and possibly microbiological testing to identify specific pathogens associated with periodontal disease. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for prevention and management of deposits on teeth.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dentistry

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Periodontology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K03.6 lies in its potential to prevent more severe dental issues, such as periodontal disease and tooth loss, through early intervention. Population health impact includes the reduction of dental morbidity and the promotion of oral health, which is linked to overall health outcomes. Quality measures may include the frequency of dental visits and the effectiveness of preventive care in reducing deposits on teeth, influencing healthcare utilization patterns and resource allocation in dental care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K03.6 lies in its potential to prevent more severe dental issues, such as periodontal disease and tooth loss, through early intervention. Population health impact includes the reduction of dental morbidity and the promotion of oral health, which is linked to overall health outcomes. Quality measures may include the frequency of dental visits and the effectiveness of preventive care in reducing deposits on teeth, influencing healthcare utilization patterns and resource allocation in dental care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the necessity of preventive services, such as cleanings and fluoride applications, which may be covered under dental insurance. Common denials can occur if documentation does not clearly support the diagnosis or if the services rendered are not deemed medically necessary. Best practices include ensuring that all treatment notes are thorough and that the rationale for services is clearly articulated in the patient's record.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K03.6?

K03.6 covers conditions related to the presence of deposits on teeth, including dental calculus, plaque accumulation, and extrinsic stains. It is important to differentiate these from other dental conditions such as caries or periodontal disease.

When should K03.6 be used instead of related codes?

K03.6 should be used when the primary concern is the presence of deposits on teeth without significant underlying periodontal disease. If periodontal disease is present, additional codes may be necessary to capture the full clinical picture.

What documentation supports K03.6?

Documentation should include clinical notes detailing the type and extent of deposits, any associated symptoms, and the results of any diagnostic tests performed. Photographic evidence and treatment plans may also support the use of this code.