Secondary occlusal trauma

This code signifies damage to the periodontium (gums, bone, and ligaments supporting the teeth) resulting from excessive occlusal forces applied to teeth that already have compromised periodontal support. It describes a situation where a pre-existing periodontal condition makes the teeth more susceptible to injury from normal or abnormal biting forces.

Use this code when documentation indicates periodontal breakdown (e.g., bone loss, mobility) exacerbated by occlusal trauma. This typically occurs in patients with pre-existing periodontitis where the biting forces, even if not inherently excessive, become traumatic due to the weakened supporting structures.

• Differentiate from primary occlusal trauma (K08.81), which occurs in a healthy periodontium.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the occlusal forces to the secondary damage in a compromised periodontium.
• Code any underlying periodontal disease (e.g., K05.30, K05.31) as a primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter.