ICD-10: K06.011

ICD-10 code K06.011 refers to "Localized gingival recession, minimal," which is a specific diagnosis used in dental and medical coding to identify a condition characterized by the recession of the gum tissue in a localized area. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this condition.

Clinical Description of Localized Gingival Recession

Definition

Localized gingival recession is defined as the apical displacement of the gingival margin, resulting in the exposure of the root surface of the tooth. This condition can occur in specific areas of the mouth and is often associated with various factors, including periodontal disease, mechanical trauma, or anatomical predispositions.

Minimal Recession

The term "minimal" indicates that the recession is not extensive and typically involves a small area of the gingiva. This classification is important for treatment planning and prognosis, as minimal recession may not require aggressive intervention compared to more severe cases.

Etiology

Localized gingival recession can be caused by several factors, including:
- Periodontal Disease: Inflammation and infection of the supporting structures of the teeth can lead to tissue loss.
- Mechanical Trauma: Aggressive brushing, improper flossing techniques, or dental procedures can contribute to gum recession.
- Anatomical Factors: Thin gingival biotype or high frenum attachment can predispose individuals to localized recession.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Movement of teeth can sometimes lead to recession in specific areas.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with localized gingival recession may present with:
- Exposed Tooth Roots: The most noticeable sign is the exposure of the root surface, which may lead to sensitivity.
- Discoloration: The affected area may appear darker due to the exposure of the root surface.
- Sensitivity: Patients may experience discomfort or sensitivity to temperature changes or sweet foods.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of localized gingival recession is typically made through clinical examination, which may include:
- Visual Inspection: Identifying areas of recession and measuring the extent using periodontal probes.
- Radiographic Evaluation: X-rays may be used to assess the underlying bone and periodontal health.

Treatment Options

Management of localized gingival recession, especially when classified as minimal, may include:
- Non-Surgical Approaches: Such as improved oral hygiene practices, desensitizing agents, and fluoride treatments.
- Surgical Interventions: In cases where the recession progresses or causes significant sensitivity, procedures like gingival grafting may be considered.

Coding and Billing Implications

The use of ICD-10 code K06.011 is essential for accurate billing and documentation in dental practices. It allows healthcare providers to specify the diagnosis for insurance claims and treatment records, ensuring appropriate reimbursement and care continuity.

Related Codes

Other related codes in the K06 category may include:
- K06.012: Localized gingival recession, moderate
- K06.013: Localized gingival recession, severe

Conclusion

Localized gingival recession, minimal (ICD-10 code K06.011), is a specific dental condition that requires careful assessment and management. Understanding its clinical implications, causes, and treatment options is crucial for dental professionals in providing effective care and ensuring proper coding for reimbursement purposes. Regular monitoring and patient education on oral hygiene practices can help prevent the progression of this condition.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.011, refers to the apical displacement of the gingival margin in a specific area of the mouth, resulting in exposure of the tooth root. This condition can have various clinical presentations, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics that are important for diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Localized gingival recession typically presents as a localized area where the gum tissue has receded, exposing the underlying tooth structure. The recession is often minimal, meaning that the gingival margin has moved slightly but not extensively. Clinically, this can be observed during a dental examination, where the dentist may note:

• Gingival Margin Position: The gingival margin is positioned apically relative to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) of the tooth.
• Root Exposure: The affected tooth may show signs of root exposure, which can lead to sensitivity.
• Color Changes: The exposed root surface may appear darker than the surrounding gingival tissue due to the lack of keratinized tissue.

Signs and Symptoms

Patients with localized gingival recession may experience a range of signs and symptoms, including:

• Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to temperature changes (hot or cold) and certain foods, particularly acidic or sweet items, due to the exposure of the dentin.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Patients may express concerns about the appearance of their smile, especially if the recession is noticeable.
• Discomfort: Some patients may report discomfort or pain in the affected area, particularly when brushing or flossing.
• Plaque Accumulation: The exposed root surface may be more prone to plaque accumulation, leading to potential periodontal issues if not managed properly.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to localized gingival recession, including:

• Age: Gingival recession is more common in older adults, although it can occur at any age.
• Oral Hygiene Practices: Poor oral hygiene or aggressive brushing techniques can contribute to the development of gingival recession.
• Periodontal Disease History: A history of periodontal disease or other dental issues can increase the likelihood of gingival recession.
• Anatomical Factors: Patients with thin gingival biotypes or those with prominent roots may be more susceptible to recession.
• Habits: Habits such as tobacco use or bruxism (teeth grinding) can exacerbate the condition.

Conclusion

Localized gingival recession (ICD-10 code K06.011) is a condition characterized by the apical displacement of the gingival margin, leading to root exposure and potential sensitivity. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. Dental professionals should assess these factors to develop appropriate management strategies, which may include improved oral hygiene practices, desensitizing agents, or surgical interventions if necessary. Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring and addressing any signs of gingival recession early on.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.011, refers to a specific dental condition characterized by the receding of the gum tissue around one or more teeth. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including sensitivity and increased risk of decay. Understanding alternative names and related terms for this condition can enhance communication among dental professionals and improve patient education.

Alternative Names for Localized Gingival Recession

1. Minimal Gingival Recession: This term directly reflects the severity of the condition, indicating that the recession is not extensive.
2. Localized Gum Recession: A straightforward alternative that emphasizes the localized nature of the recession.
3. Mild Gingival Recession: While "minimal" and "mild" can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "mild" may suggest a slightly broader range of severity.
4. Localized Periodontal Recession: This term incorporates the periodontal aspect, highlighting the relationship between gum recession and periodontal health.

Related Terms

1. Gingival Recession: A general term that refers to the loss of gum tissue, which can be localized or generalized.
2. Receding Gums: A layman's term commonly used to describe the condition, making it more accessible for patients.
3. Periodontal Disease: While not synonymous, localized gingival recession can be a sign of periodontal disease, which encompasses a range of gum-related issues.
4. Gingival Margin: Refers to the edge of the gum tissue, which is affected in cases of gingival recession.
5. Root Exposure: This term describes the condition where the tooth root becomes visible due to gum recession, often leading to sensitivity.

Conclusion

Understanding the various alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code K06.011 is essential for effective communication in dental practice. These terms not only facilitate clearer discussions among healthcare providers but also help in educating patients about their conditions. By using precise terminology, dental professionals can enhance patient understanding and engagement in their treatment plans.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.011, refers to the condition where the gum tissue recedes from the tooth surface, exposing the root of the tooth. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. The diagnosis of localized gingival recession involves several criteria, which are essential for accurate coding and treatment planning.

Diagnostic Criteria for Localized Gingival Recession

1. Clinical Examination

A thorough clinical examination is the primary method for diagnosing localized gingival recession. The following aspects are typically assessed:

• Visual Inspection: The dentist examines the gums for visible signs of recession, noting the areas where the gum line has moved away from the tooth.
• Measurement of Recession: The depth of the recession is measured using a periodontal probe. For K06.011, the recession is classified as "minimal," which generally indicates a recession of less than 1 mm to 3 mm, depending on specific clinical guidelines.

2. Patient History

Gathering a comprehensive patient history is crucial. This includes:

• Symptoms: Patients may report sensitivity to hot or cold, discomfort, or aesthetic concerns related to the appearance of their teeth.
• Medical History: Conditions such as periodontal disease, diabetes, or hormonal changes can contribute to gingival recession and should be documented.
• Dental History: Previous dental treatments, oral hygiene practices, and any history of trauma to the gums or teeth are relevant.

3. Periodontal Assessment

A periodontal assessment is essential to evaluate the overall health of the gums and supporting structures. This includes:

• Probing Depths: Measuring the depth of the periodontal pockets to assess the health of the periodontal tissues.
• Attachment Levels: Determining the clinical attachment level (CAL) to understand the extent of periodontal support around the teeth.

4. Radiographic Evaluation

While not always necessary for diagnosing localized gingival recession, radiographs can help assess the underlying bone structure and rule out other conditions. This may include:

• Periapical Radiographs: To evaluate the health of the bone surrounding the teeth.
• Bitewing Radiographs: To check for interproximal caries and bone loss.

5. Differential Diagnosis

It is important to differentiate localized gingival recession from other conditions that may present similarly, such as:

• Periodontal Disease: More extensive gum disease may present with recession but typically involves deeper pockets and attachment loss.
• Trauma or Injury: Recession due to mechanical trauma or aggressive brushing techniques should be considered.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of localized gingival recession (ICD-10 code K06.011) is based on a combination of clinical examination, patient history, periodontal assessment, and, when necessary, radiographic evaluation. Understanding these criteria is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care for their dental health needs. If you have further questions or need additional information on treatment options, feel free to ask!

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.011, refers to the loss of gum tissue around a specific tooth or teeth, which can lead to exposure of the tooth root. This condition can result from various factors, including periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, or anatomical predispositions. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for this condition is crucial for effective management and patient care.

Treatment Approaches for Localized Gingival Recession

1. Non-Surgical Interventions

a. Oral Hygiene Instruction

Educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques is fundamental. This includes:
- Gentle Brushing: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid further trauma to the gums.
- Flossing: Encouraging regular flossing to remove plaque from areas that toothbrushes may miss.

b. Scaling and Root Planing

This deep cleaning procedure involves:
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Scaling removes plaque and calculus from above and below the gum line.
- Root Planing: Smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach and reduce inflammation.

c. Desensitizing Agents

For patients experiencing sensitivity due to exposed roots, desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments can be beneficial. These products help to reduce discomfort associated with temperature changes and other stimuli.

2. Surgical Interventions

When non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical options may be considered:

a. Gingival Grafting

This procedure involves:
- Tissue Grafts: Taking tissue from another part of the mouth (often the palate) and attaching it to the area of recession. This can help cover exposed roots and restore gum tissue.
- Types of Grafts: Options include free gingival grafts, connective tissue grafts, and pedicle grafts, depending on the specific case and patient needs.

b. Pinhole Surgical Technique

A minimally invasive option that involves:
- Creating a Small Pinhole: This allows the dentist to reposition existing gum tissue over the exposed root without the need for grafting.
- Benefits: Reduced recovery time and less discomfort compared to traditional grafting techniques.

3. Adjunctive Therapies

a. Antimicrobial Therapy

In cases where periodontal disease is a contributing factor, the use of antimicrobial mouth rinses or local delivery of antibiotics may be indicated to control bacterial infection and inflammation.

b. Behavior Modification

Addressing habits that contribute to gingival recession, such as:
- Tobacco Cessation: Encouraging patients to quit smoking, which can impair healing and exacerbate periodontal issues.
- Stress Management: Stress can lead to bruxism (teeth grinding), which may worsen gum recession.

4. Regular Monitoring and Maintenance

Post-treatment, regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of the gums and ensure that the recession does not progress. This may include:
- Periodic Cleanings: Professional cleanings every 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the condition.
- Ongoing Education: Continual reinforcement of proper oral hygiene practices.

Conclusion

Localized gingival recession (ICD-10 code K06.011) requires a tailored approach that may include both non-surgical and surgical treatments, depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying causes. By implementing effective oral hygiene practices, considering surgical options when necessary, and maintaining regular dental visits, patients can manage this condition effectively and preserve their oral health. For optimal outcomes, collaboration between the patient and dental professionals is essential in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.