CLAIM RECON INTEL

DC 9905 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.150 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.2

OVERVIEW

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) is rated under Diagnostic Code 9905 at 38 C.F.R. § 4.150, based on limitation of jaw motion measured in inter-incisal range (how far you can open your mouth) and lateral excursion. TMJ is common among veterans who experienced blast exposure, dental trauma, or chronic stress-related jaw clenching (bruxism), particularly those with PTSD.

RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)

KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER

-Dental or medical diagnosis of TMJ disorder

-Service records showing dental trauma, jaw injury, or blast exposure

-PTSD documentation (if linking TMJ to stress-related bruxism)

-Measurement of inter-incisal range and lateral excursion

-X-ray or MRI of TMJ showing disc displacement, degeneration, or inflammation

SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)

C&P EXAM TIPS (4)

1.Do NOT stretch your jaw or take muscle relaxants before the exam.

2.Describe clicking, popping, locking, and pain with chewing.

3.Report impact on eating: soft food diet, inability to eat chewy foods, pain with opening mouth wide.

4.If linked to PTSD/stress, document the connection between stress, bruxism, and jaw damage.

DOLLAR IMPACT

TMJ at 20% ($345/mo) plus secondary migraines (30-50%) can push combined ratings significantly. Many veterans with PTSD have undiagnosed TMJ from bruxism.

RELATED CONDITION GUIDES