Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 9905: Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.150
- Rating range
- 10% to 50%
- Rating levels
- 5
- Body system
- Dental and oral conditions
The VA rates Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) under diagnostic code 9905 in 38 CFR § 4.150. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 9905 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Maximum unassisted vertical opening 30-34mm without dietary restrictions; or lateral excursion limited to 0-4mm What raters look for30-34mm opening; lateral excursion 0-4mm |
| 20% | Opening 30-34mm with dietary restriction to soft and semi-solid foods; or 21-29mm without dietary restrictions What raters look for30-34mm with soft foods; 21-29mm opening |
| 30% | Opening 30-34mm restricted to full liquid and pureed foods; 21-29mm restricted to soft and semi-solid foods; or 11-20mm without dietary restrictions What raters look for21-29mm with soft foods; 11-20mm opening |
| 40% | Opening 21-29mm restricted to full liquid and pureed foods; 11-20mm with dietary restriction to mechanically altered foods; or 0-10mm without dietary restrictions What raters look for0-10mm opening; dietary restrictions |
| 50% | Maximum unassisted vertical opening 0-10mm with dietary restriction to all mechanically altered foods What raters look for0-10mm opening; mechanically altered foods; severe limitation |
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 9905?
Diagnostic code 9905 is the VA rating schedule entry for Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), found in 38 CFR § 4.150. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 9905?
DC 9905 provides ratings of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 9905 require?
The 50% rating for Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) requires: Maximum unassisted vertical opening 0-10mm with dietary restriction to all mechanically altered foods.