EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) VA Disability Rating
DC 9905 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.150 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.2
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) VA Disability Rating is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 9905 of 38 C.F.R. § 4.150 across 3 severity tiers (40% -- Loss of all teeth, prosthesis cannot be constructed / 20% -- Significant tooth loss / 10% -- Partial tooth loss from trauma). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303.
OVERVIEW
TMJ dysfunction (DC 9905) is rated based on limitation of jaw motion and inter-incisal range. Lateral excursion 0-4mm rates 10%. Inter-incisal range 31-40mm rates 10%, 21-30mm rates 20%, 11-20mm rates 30%, 0-10mm rates 40%. Often secondary to PTSD (bruxism) or dental trauma.
RATING CRITERIA (3 LEVELS)
40% -- Loss of all teeth, prosthesis cannot be constructed
All teeth missing where prosthesis cannot be made.
20% -- Significant tooth loss
Loss of teeth involving full arch segments.
10% -- Partial tooth loss from trauma
Loss of teeth from service trauma affecting masticatory function.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026