Disturbances in tooth eruption

This code signifies any deviation from the normal physiological process of tooth emergence through the gingiva into the oral cavity. It encompasses conditions where teeth erupt prematurely, are delayed in their eruption, or erupt in an abnormal position or sequence. These disturbances can affect both deciduous (primary) and permanent dentition.

Use this code when documentation specifies issues such as premature eruption, delayed eruption (e.g., impacted teeth without specifying impaction of a specific tooth), ectopic eruption, or other generalized abnormalities in the timing or pattern of tooth emergence. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate a disturbance in the eruption process, often noted during routine dental examinations or when a patient presents with related symptoms.

• Do not use this code for specific impacted teeth; instead, use more precise codes from the 520.6x subcategory if available (e.g., 520.61 for impacted maxillary canine).
• Differentiate from agenesis (absence) of teeth (520.0) or supernumerary teeth (520.1), which are distinct developmental anomalies.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when the eruption disturbance is the chief complaint or reason for the encounter.