ICD-10: K06.013

ICD-10 code K06.013 refers to "Localized gingival recession, severe," which is a specific diagnosis used in clinical settings to identify a particular type of gum recession. Understanding this condition involves exploring its clinical description, implications, and coding details.

Clinical Description

Localized gingival recession is characterized by the apical migration of the gingival margin, leading to exposure of the root surface of the teeth. This condition can occur in specific areas of the mouth and is often associated with various factors, including:

• Periodontal Disease: Chronic inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to tissue loss and recession.
• Mechanical Factors: Aggressive brushing, improper flossing techniques, or the use of hard-bristled toothbrushes can contribute to gum recession.
• Anatomical Factors: Certain anatomical features, such as thin gingival biotype or prominent roots, may predispose individuals to localized recession.
• Environmental Factors: Habits such as tobacco use or oral piercings can also exacerbate the condition.

Severe localized gingival recession indicates a significant loss of gum tissue, which can lead to increased sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and a higher risk of root caries. Clinically, it may present with visible recession of the gum tissue, often accompanied by inflammation or other periodontal issues.

Implications of Severe Localized Gingival Recession

The severity of localized gingival recession can have several implications for dental health:

• Increased Sensitivity: Patients may experience heightened sensitivity to temperature changes and certain foods due to exposed root surfaces.
• Aesthetic Concerns: The appearance of the smile can be affected, leading to psychological impacts on the patient.
• Risk of Tooth Loss: If left untreated, severe recession can lead to further periodontal issues, potentially resulting in tooth mobility or loss.
• Need for Treatment: Management may involve non-surgical approaches, such as scaling and root planing, or surgical interventions like gum grafting to restore the gingival margin.

Coding Details

In the context of dental billing and coding, K06.013 is essential for accurately documenting the diagnosis of severe localized gingival recession. Proper coding ensures that healthcare providers can receive appropriate reimbursement for treatments rendered.

Related Codes

• K06.012: Localized gingival recession, moderate, which indicates a less severe form of the condition.
• K06.0: Gingival recession, a broader category that encompasses various types of gingival recession.

Importance of Accurate Coding

Accurate coding is crucial for several reasons:

• Insurance Reimbursement: Correctly coding the diagnosis helps in obtaining reimbursement from insurance providers for the treatment provided.
• Patient Records: It ensures that patient records reflect the severity of the condition, which is important for ongoing treatment and management.
• Research and Statistics: Accurate coding contributes to data collection for research and public health statistics regarding periodontal diseases.

In summary, ICD-10 code K06.013 for localized gingival recession, severe, is a critical component in the diagnosis and management of periodontal health. Understanding its clinical implications and the importance of accurate coding can significantly impact patient care and treatment outcomes.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.013, is a dental condition characterized by the apical migration of the gingival margin, leading to exposure of the root surface of the teeth. This condition can have significant implications for both oral health and aesthetics. Below is a detailed overview of its clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics.

Clinical Presentation

Localized gingival recession typically presents as a localized area where the gum tissue has receded from the tooth surface. This recession can vary in severity, with "severe" indicating a significant loss of gum tissue. Clinically, the following features may be observed:

• Gingival Margin Position: The gingival margin is noticeably lower than the normal position, exposing the root surface.
• Root Surface Exposure: The affected tooth or teeth will show visible areas of the root, which may appear discolored or sensitive.
• Attachment Loss: There may be a measurable loss of periodontal attachment, which can be assessed through clinical examination.

Signs

The signs of localized gingival recession include:

• Visual Examination: The most apparent sign is the visible recession of the gingival tissue, often accompanied by a change in the color of the exposed root surface.
• Probing Depth: Periodontal probing may reveal increased probing depths in the area of recession, indicating attachment loss.
• Inflammation: In some cases, there may be signs of inflammation in the surrounding gingival tissue, although localized recession can occur without significant inflammation.

Symptoms

Patients with localized gingival recession may report various 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.
• Discomfort: Some patients may experience discomfort or pain in the affected area, especially when brushing or eating.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Many patients are concerned about the appearance of their smile, particularly if the recession is noticeable.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to localized gingival recession, particularly in its severe form:

• 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 recession.
• Periodontal Disease History: A history of periodontal disease or other dental issues can increase the risk of gingival recession.
• Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to periodontal issues, including gingival recession.
• Habits: Habits such as tobacco use, teeth grinding (bruxism), or lip and tongue piercings can also contribute to the development of localized gingival recession.

Conclusion

Localized gingival recession, particularly when classified as severe under ICD-10 code K06.013, presents a range of clinical features, signs, and symptoms that can significantly impact a patient's oral health and quality of life. Understanding these aspects is crucial for dental professionals in diagnosing and managing this condition effectively. Early intervention and appropriate treatment strategies can help mitigate the effects of gingival recession and improve patient outcomes.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.013, refers to the significant loss of gum tissue around one or more teeth, exposing the roots and potentially leading to various dental issues. Understanding alternative names and related terms for this condition can enhance communication among healthcare professionals and improve patient education. Below are some alternative names and related terms associated with K06.013.

Alternative Names

1. Severe Gum Recession: This term emphasizes the severity of the condition, indicating a significant loss of gum tissue.
2. Localized Gum Recession: This name highlights that the recession is confined to specific areas rather than being generalized across the entire gum line.
3. Localized Gingival Recession: A more technical term that uses "gingival" to refer specifically to the gums.
4. Gingival Recession: A broader term that can refer to any degree of gum recession, but in this context, it can imply severe cases when specified.
5. Root Exposure: This term describes the consequence of gingival recession, where the roots of the teeth become visible due to the loss of gum tissue.

Related Terms

1. Periodontal Disease: While not synonymous, localized gingival recession can be a manifestation of periodontal disease, which affects the supporting structures of the teeth.
2. Periodontitis: This is a more advanced form of periodontal disease that can lead to gum recession and is often associated with severe cases.
3. Gingivitis: Although primarily an inflammation of the gums without recession, untreated gingivitis can progress to conditions that cause gum recession.
4. Dental Sensitivity: Patients with localized gingival recession often experience increased sensitivity in the affected teeth due to root exposure.
5. Mucogingival Defects: This term encompasses various conditions affecting the relationship between the gingiva and the mucosa, including recession.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code K06.013 is crucial for effective communication in dental practice. These terms not only facilitate clearer discussions among healthcare providers but also help in educating patients about their condition and treatment options. By using precise terminology, dental professionals can ensure that patients are well-informed about the implications of localized gingival recession and the importance of seeking appropriate care.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.013, refers to the significant loss of gum tissue in a specific area, which can lead to various dental complications. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing this condition is essential for accurate coding and effective treatment planning. Below, we explore the diagnostic criteria and considerations for K06.013.

Diagnostic Criteria for Localized Gingival Recession

Clinical Examination

1. Visual Assessment: The primary method for diagnosing localized gingival recession involves a thorough visual examination of the gums. Clinicians look for areas where the gum tissue has receded significantly, exposing the roots of the teeth.

2. Measurement of Recession: The severity of gingival recession is often quantified using a periodontal probe. A recession of 3 mm or more is typically classified as severe. The measurement is taken from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) to the margin of the gingiva.

3. Localized Nature: The diagnosis specifically requires that the recession is localized, meaning it affects a specific tooth or group of teeth rather than being generalized across the entire dentition.

Patient History

1. Medical and Dental History: A comprehensive history is crucial. Factors such as previous periodontal disease, trauma, or orthodontic treatment may contribute to the condition. Additionally, habits like aggressive brushing or tobacco use can exacerbate gingival recession.

2. Symptoms: Patients may report sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli due to exposed root surfaces. This symptomatology can help differentiate localized gingival recession from other periodontal issues.

Radiographic Evaluation

1. Bone Loss Assessment: While localized gingival recession primarily involves soft tissue, radiographs may be used to assess the underlying bone structure. The presence of bone loss can indicate a more severe periodontal condition.

2. Root Surface Exposure: Radiographs can help visualize the extent of root surface exposure, which is critical for determining the severity of the recession.

Differential Diagnosis

1. Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is essential to differentiate localized gingival recession from other periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis or generalized gingival recession. This may involve evaluating the overall periodontal health of the patient.

2. Identifying Contributing Factors: Conditions such as mucogingival defects or systemic diseases that affect periodontal health should also be considered during diagnosis.

Conclusion

Diagnosing localized gingival recession (ICD-10 code K06.013) involves a combination of clinical examination, patient history, and radiographic evaluation. The criteria focus on the severity and localization of the recession, as well as the exclusion of other periodontal conditions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning and management of the condition, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

Localized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.013, refers to the loss of gum tissue around a tooth, which can lead to exposure of the tooth root and various complications, including sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and increased risk of decay. The treatment approaches for this condition can vary based on the severity of the recession, the underlying causes, and the overall health of the patient. Below are standard treatment approaches for managing severe localized gingival recession.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

1. Oral Hygiene Improvement

• Patient Education: Educating patients on proper brushing techniques is crucial. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding aggressive brushing can help prevent further recession.
• Antimicrobial Rinses: The use of antimicrobial mouthwashes can help reduce plaque accumulation and inflammation, promoting healthier gums.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

• This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, smoothing the tooth root to promote healing and reduce inflammation. It is often the first step in treating periodontal issues associated with gingival recession.

3. Desensitizing Agents

• For patients experiencing sensitivity due to exposed roots, desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments can help alleviate discomfort.

Surgical Treatment Options

1. Gingival Grafting

• Connective Tissue Graft: This is one of the most common surgical procedures for severe gingival recession. Tissue is taken from the palate and grafted to the affected area to cover the exposed root and promote new tissue growth.
• Free Gingival Graft: Similar to connective tissue grafts, this involves taking a piece of tissue directly from the palate and placing it over the recession site. This method is often used when there is a need for additional keratinized tissue.

2. Pinhole Surgical Technique

• This minimally invasive procedure involves making a small hole in the gum tissue above the recession site and using special instruments to reposition the gum tissue over the exposed root. This technique can reduce recovery time and discomfort compared to traditional grafting methods.

3. Regenerative Procedures

• In some cases, regenerative techniques may be employed, such as the use of barrier membranes or growth factors to encourage the regeneration of lost periodontal tissues.

Adjunctive Therapies

1. Orthodontic Treatment

• If the recession is related to tooth position, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to reposition teeth and alleviate the cause of the recession.

2. Lifestyle Modifications

• Addressing habits such as smoking or teeth grinding (bruxism) can significantly impact the success of treatment and the prevention of further recession.

Conclusion

The management of localized gingival recession, particularly in severe cases, requires a comprehensive approach that may include both non-surgical and surgical interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further tissue loss and associated complications. Patients should work closely with their dental professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and conditions. Regular follow-ups and maintenance care are also critical to ensure long-term success and health of the periodontal tissues.