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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK05.321

K05.321

Billable

Chronic periodontitis, generalized, slight

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K05.321 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic periodontitis, generalized, slight.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic periodontitis, generalized, slight, is a common inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, primarily the gums and bone. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as gum inflammation, bleeding during brushing, and possible tooth mobility. The disease typically progresses slowly and can lead to the loss of periodontal attachment and alveolar bone if left untreated. The anatomy involved includes the gingiva, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone, which are crucial for maintaining tooth stability. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, probing depths, and radiographic evaluation to assess bone loss. The classification of chronic periodontitis is based on the severity and extent of the disease, with slight generalized chronic periodontitis indicating minimal attachment loss and localized inflammation. Regular dental check-ups and periodontal assessments are vital for early detection and management of this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and radiographic assessment.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve non-surgical and surgical interventions depending on severity.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed records of clinical findings and treatment plans are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other periodontal diseases.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the severity or extent of periodontitis.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of clinical findings or treatment outcomes.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient documentation or incorrect coding.

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

Chronic periodontitis, including K05.321, has significant clinical implications as it can lead to tooth loss and impact overall health. The condition is prevalent in various populations, contributing to healthcare utilization patterns, including increased dental visits and treatments. Understanding the epidemiology of chronic periodontitis is crucial for developing preventive strategies and improving population health outcomes. Quality measures related to periodontal health are essential for assessing the effectiveness of treatment and patient education efforts.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Chronic periodontitis, including K05.321, has significant clinical implications as it can lead to tooth loss and impact overall health. The condition is prevalent in various populations, contributing to healthcare utilization patterns, including increased dental visits and treatments. Understanding the epidemiology of chronic periodontitis is crucial for developing preventive strategies and improving population health outcomes. Quality measures related to periodontal health are essential for assessing the effectiveness of treatment and patient education efforts.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for thorough documentation to justify the diagnosis and any procedures performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical findings are well-documented and that the coding accurately reflects the severity and extent of the disease. Regular audits and updates to coding practices can help mitigate billing challenges.

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 K05.321?

K05.321 specifically covers generalized chronic periodontitis with slight attachment loss, characterized by inflammation of the gums and minimal bone loss. It is important to differentiate it from more severe forms of periodontitis.

When should K05.321 be used instead of related codes?

K05.321 should be used when the patient presents with generalized chronic periodontitis with slight severity. If the condition is localized or more severe, other codes such as K05.311 or K05.322 should be considered.

What documentation supports K05.321?

Documentation should include clinical examination findings, probing depths, radiographic evidence of bone loss, and treatment plans. Detailed notes on patient history and response to previous treatments are also essential.