Retained dental root

This code signifies the presence of a dental root fragment that remains embedded within the alveolar bone after a tooth extraction or due to a fractured tooth. These retained roots can be asymptomatic or lead to complications such as infection, pain, or cyst formation.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates the presence of a non-erupted or non-extracted dental root fragment within the jaw. This often occurs following incomplete extractions, trauma, or severe dental caries leading to root fracture. Supporting documentation includes radiographic findings (e.g., periapical X-rays, panoramic X-rays) and clinical examination notes.

• Differentiate from unerupted teeth (K01.-) or impacted teeth (K01.1) which are intact teeth, not just root fragments.
• Specify laterality (e.g., right, left, unspecified) if documented.
• Consider additional codes for any associated complications, such as abscess (K04.7) or cyst (K09.0).