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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK08.3

K08.3

Billable

Retained dental root

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K08.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of retained dental root.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Retained dental root refers to the condition where a tooth root remains embedded in the alveolar bone after the crown of the tooth has been lost or extracted. This can lead to various complications, including infection, pain, and the potential for the development of cysts or other pathologies in the surrounding tissues. The retained root is typically located in the maxilla or mandible, and its presence can complicate dental procedures and affect the overall oral health of the patient. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, or signs of infection, and the condition may be discovered incidentally during radiographic examinations. Diagnosis often involves a thorough clinical examination and imaging studies, such as periapical or panoramic radiographs, to visualize the retained root and assess the surrounding bone structure. Treatment may include surgical extraction of the retained root to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for any recurrence of symptoms or complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires imaging and clinical evaluation to confirm diagnosis.
  • Treatment complexity: Surgical intervention may be necessary, requiring coordination with dental specialists.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, imaging results, and treatment plans is essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other dental conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the condition or incorrect coding of related dental procedures.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the patient's history and treatment plan.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation or failure to meet medical necessity criteria.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K08.3 lies in its potential to cause pain and complications if left untreated, impacting the patient's quality of life and oral health. Population health impact includes the need for surgical intervention, which can contribute to healthcare utilization patterns. Awareness and proper management of retained dental roots can improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of complications, thereby enhancing overall healthcare quality measures.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K08.3 lies in its potential to cause pain and complications if left untreated, impacting the patient's quality of life and oral health. Population health impact includes the need for surgical intervention, which can contribute to healthcare utilization patterns. Awareness and proper management of retained dental roots can improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of complications, thereby enhancing overall healthcare quality measures.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The clinical significance of K08.3 lies in its potential to cause pain and complications if left untreated, impacting the patient's quality of life and oral health. Population health impact includes the need for surgical intervention, which can contribute to healthcare utilization patterns. Awareness and proper management of retained dental roots can improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of complications, thereby enhancing overall healthcare quality measures.

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 K08.3?

K08.3 specifically covers the condition of retained dental roots, which may occur after tooth extraction or loss. It does not include retained primary teeth or other dental anomalies.

When should K08.3 be used instead of related codes?

K08.3 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of a retained dental root that requires management or intervention, distinguishing it from codes related to other dental conditions such as caries or periodontal disease.

What documentation supports K08.3?

Documentation should include clinical findings, imaging studies that confirm the presence of the retained root, treatment plans, and any complications that arise from the condition.