ICD-10-CM TMJ Diagnosis Codes and Documentation Best Practices for Medical Billing

February 4, 2019

Updated 12/2025

TMJ Diagnosis from a Jaw Joint and Muscle Perspective

TMJ benefits need to be approached from a jaw joint and muscle perspective when considering billing medical insurance. Typically, TMJ is diagnosed with a combination of the patient’s history of symptoms and a physical examination. Diagnostic radiology, including CBCT scans and MRI studies, may be ordered to aid in the diagnosis process. 

Medical Insurance Requirements for TMJ Claims

Medical payors require at least one diagnosis code to be reported on the medical claim. Chart notes should accurately document the patient’s symptoms and condition, and all diagnosis codes reported must be supported by the clinical documentation.

Using ICD-10-CM Codes to Capture TMJ Symptoms

Today, we will explore the different sections in the ICD-10-CM code set available for TMJ disorders. Use these codes to implement questionnaires in your practice so that you don’t miss vital symptoms.

ICD-10-CM Code Categories Relevant to TMJ Disorders

Chapter 13: Musculoskeletal System and Jaw Disorders (M00–M99)

Chapter 13 of the ICD-10-CM covers diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (M00-M99), which includes dentofacial anomalies [including malocclusion] and other disorders of the jaw (M26-M27).

Dentofacial Anomalies and Occlusal Irregularities (M26–M27)

Things like jaw asymmetry, hyperplasia, hypoplasia, various malocclusions, and deviations in the occlusal relationship are all covered under these codes. Examine your patient carefully for anything out of the ordinary with their bite or occlusal relationship and document. If possible, take measurements of deviations using your periodontal probe.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (M26.6)

Diagnosis codes specific to temporomandibular joint disorder can be found under the M26.6 section of the ICD-10-CM. Ask the patient to elaborate on whether they are experiencing pain or tenderness of the jaw, pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints, aching pain in and around the ear, difficulty or pain with chewing, and locking of the joint.

Notate any adhesions or ankylosis. Adhesions are fibrous bands that form between tissues as a result of injury or trauma. Ankylosis is the stiffness and immobility of the joint. Also, be sure to notate any jaw pain, headaches, migraines, neck tenderness/stiffness, and other pain or discomfort your patient may be in. Make sure the chart references any head or neck traumas, regardless of how irrelevant they may seem, so that these injuries may be included in the narrative.

Documentation Best Practices for TMJ Medical Billing

Treating TMJ pain requires diagnosing jaw joint and muscle symptoms rather than the usual bruxism or clenching. It is imperative that documentation be precise, detailed, and include terms that relate to the applicable diagnosis. Keep in mind that your clinical notes are your formal diagnosis of your patient. If it isn’t included in your notes, then it can’t be substantiated on your claim, and a diagnosis cannot be applied.

Supporting TMJ Medical Claims with Accurate Coding and Documentation

Navigating TMJ diagnosis and medical billing requires a careful balance of clinical precision and coding expertise. eAssist partners with dental practices to ensure documentation supports medical necessity, ICD-10 codes are applied correctly, and TMJ claims are positioned for optimal reimbursement. If you’re ready to strengthen your TMJ billing strategy and capture revenue you may be missing, schedule a consultation today.

Disclaimer and Coding Responsibility

Disclaimer: Insurance administration and dental billing recommendations presented here represent the opinions of the author or our staff and are for informational purposes only. You are responsible for your own use of the CDT Codes, insurance administration, and dental billing. For the latest CDT codes and official interpretations, contact the American Dental Association or visit ADA.org.