ICD-10: K05.0

The diagnosis of acute gingivitis, classified under ICD-10 code K05.0, is based on several clinical criteria. Here are the key points used for diagnosis:

• Clinical Symptoms: Patients typically present with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, particularly during brushing or flossing. These symptoms are indicative of inflammation in the gingival tissues.

• Plaque Accumulation: The presence of dental plaque is a significant factor. Acute gingivitis is often associated with plaque-induced inflammation, which means that the condition arises due to the accumulation of plaque on the teeth and gums [1][2].

• Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is essential to rule out other potential causes of gingival inflammation, such as periodontal disease or systemic conditions that may affect gum health. A diagnosis of acute gingivitis should not be made if there is evidence of calculus (tartar) or extrinsic staining, as these may require different treatment approaches [3][4].

• Duration of Symptoms: Acute gingivitis is characterized by a relatively short duration of symptoms, typically occurring over days to weeks, as opposed to chronic gingivitis, which persists over a longer period [5].

• Response to Oral Hygiene: Improvement in symptoms following enhanced oral hygiene practices can also support the diagnosis. If symptoms resolve with proper dental care, it further indicates that the condition is likely plaque-induced [6].

These criteria help dental professionals accurately diagnose acute gingivitis and differentiate it from other periodontal diseases.

The ICD-10 code K05.0 refers to Acute gingivitis, and it has several alternative names and related terms that are commonly used in medical contexts. Here are some of them:

• Acute Gingivitis: This is the primary term associated with the code K05.0.
• Plaque-Induced Acute Gingivitis: This term specifies that the condition is caused by plaque accumulation.
• Non-Plaque Induced Acute Gingivitis: This variant indicates that the gingivitis is not primarily caused by plaque.
• Acute Inflammation of the Gums: A descriptive term that highlights the inflammatory nature of the condition.
• Acute Gum Disease: A broader term that encompasses various forms of gum disease, including acute gingivitis.
• Acute Periodontal Disease: While this term can refer to a range of periodontal issues, it is sometimes used interchangeably with acute gingivitis in clinical settings.

These terms help in understanding the condition from different perspectives, including its causes and symptoms, and are useful for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and coding for treatment purposes.