Arrested dental caries

This code signifies dental caries that have ceased to progress. It indicates a lesion that was once active but has now become inactive, characterized by a hard, often dark, and non-cavitated surface that no longer requires restorative intervention.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "arrested caries," "inactive caries," or "non-progressive caries." This typically applies to lesions observed during routine dental examinations that show no signs of demineralization or cavitation progression since the last assessment.

• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes arrested caries from active caries requiring treatment.
• Do not use this code for initial carious lesions that have not yet been assessed for progression.
• This code is typically a secondary diagnosis, as the primary reason for the encounter might be a routine check-up or other dental issue.