Arthritis of bilateral temporomandibular joint

This code signifies inflammation of both temporomandibular joints (TMJs), characterized by pain, swelling, and restricted movement. It indicates a non-traumatic, degenerative, or inflammatory process affecting the articulation between the mandible and the temporal bone on both sides of the head.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states bilateral temporomandibular joint arthritis. This diagnosis is supported by findings such as crepitus, tenderness, limited jaw opening, or imaging evidence of arthritic changes in both TMJs.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use codes for unilateral or unspecified TMJ arthritis.
• Distinguish from temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) not specifically diagnosed as arthritis (e.g., M26.60-M26.63).
• Code any underlying systemic arthritic conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) first, followed by this code as a manifestation.