2025 ICD-10-CM code M26
Misalignment or incorrect relation between the teeth of the upper and lower dental arches.
Medical necessity for treatment depends on the severity of the malocclusion and its impact on function, speech, and oral health.Documentation should support the need for intervention.
Diagnosis involves routine dental exams, checking teeth alignment, and potentially X-rays. Treatment may include braces, tooth removal, teeth repair, or surgery.
- Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (M00-M99)
- Dentofacial anomalies [including malocclusion] and other disorders of jaw (M26-M27)
In simple words: A "bad bite" where the upper and lower teeth don't fit together properly. This can happen because of crowded, crooked, or misaligned teeth and jaws. It can make it hard to bite and chew, and might cause problems with speech or breathing.
Dentofacial anomalies encompass abnormalities of the mouth or jaw structure, causing a shift from normal position or function. Malocclusion, a type of dentofacial anomaly, involves abnormal alignment of the teeth, resulting in an irregular bite. This can manifest as crowded or crooked teeth, or misaligned upper and lower jaws. The condition may lead to facial asymmetry, difficulties in biting, chewing, and speech, mouth breathing, and potential oral health issues like tooth erosion and gum disease.
Example 1: A 10-year-old child presents with crowded upper teeth and an overbite. Diagnosis: M26. Treatment: Braces., A 25-year-old adult experiences difficulty chewing due to a crossbite. Diagnosis: M26. Treatment: Orthodontic adjustment., A 50-year-old patient has an underbite causing jaw pain. Diagnosis: M26. Treatment: Orthognathic surgery.
Clinical examination findings describing the malocclusion, including the type and severity; imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, dental models); treatment plan.
- Specialties:Dentistry, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center