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ICD-10 Coding for Tooth Fracture(S02.5XXA, S02.5XXD)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Tooth Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Dental FractureBroken Tooth

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Tooth Fracture

S02.5XX_Primary Range

Fracture of tooth (traumatic)

This range covers traumatic fractures of the tooth, including crown and root fractures.

Dislocation of tooth

Used when there is a dislocation without a fracture.

Cracked tooth

Used for non-traumatic cracked teeth.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S02.5XXAFracture of tooth (traumatic), initial encounterUse for initial encounters where active treatment is provided for a traumatic tooth fracture.
  • Documented traumatic event
  • Radiographic evidence of fracture
S02.5XXDFracture of tooth (traumatic), subsequent encounterUse for subsequent encounters during the healing phase of a traumatic tooth fracture.
  • Documented healing process
  • Follow-up visit notes

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for tooth fracture

Essential facts and insights about Tooth Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a traumatic tooth fracture is S02.5XXA for initial encounters and S02.5XXD for subsequent encounters.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for tooth fracture

Fracture of tooth (traumatic), initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a traumatic event leading to tooth fracture

coding Criteria

  • Use 7th character 'A' for initial encounter

Applicable To

  • Traumatic tooth fracture

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented traumatic event
  • Radiographic evidence of fracture

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect 7th character usage

Coding Notes

  • Ensure the 7th character reflects the encounter type.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

CBCT for fracture extent evaluation

D0364
Use when CBCT is performed to evaluate the extent of the fracture.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Dislocation of tooth

S03.0
Use when there is tooth mobility without a fracture line.

Cracked tooth

K03.81
Use for non-traumatic cracked teeth.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Tooth Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S02.5XXA.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed templates for documentation., Include imaging results and clinical findings.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure the 7th character reflects the encounter type (A for initial, D for subsequent).

Impact

Lack of detailed trauma documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all trauma details are documented, including mechanism and clinical findings.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Tooth Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Tooth Fracture

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Tooth Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Visit for Tooth Fracture

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Fracture classification
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

**HPI:** 25 yo male presents after a fall with pain in the upper front tooth. **Clinical Findings:** Ellis Class II fracture of tooth #9 with 1.5mm dentin exposure. **Plan:** Apply temporary dressing, refer to dentistry.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Fractured front tooth
Good Documentation Example
Ellis Class II fracture of tooth #9 with 1.5mm dentin exposure, no pulp involvement, sustained during basketball collision
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the fracture type, tooth involved, and mechanism of injury.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Tooth Fracture? Ask your questions below.

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