Teething syndrome

This code represents the constellation of signs and symptoms attributed to the eruption of teeth in infants and young children. It encompasses non-specific complaints such as irritability, drooling, gum swelling, and mild fever that are commonly associated with the teething process. It does not describe a disease but rather a physiological developmental stage with associated discomfort.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "teething syndrome" or describes symptoms directly linked by the provider to tooth eruption, such as fussiness, increased drooling, or mild gum inflammation in an infant. This code is appropriate when no other specific medical condition is identified as the cause of the symptoms.

• This is a symptom code; avoid using it if a more definitive diagnosis for the symptoms (e.g., otitis media for fever) is established.
• Often used as a secondary diagnosis to explain minor, self-limiting symptoms in an otherwise healthy infant.
• Ensure provider documentation clearly links the symptoms to the teething process rather than just listing symptoms.