I would like to know the most specific code for generalized, gross dental decay using the ICD-9. Would it be code 521.03 Dental caries extending into the pulp? Or is there a better code that uses the terms “gross decay?” Thank you for your help. -Shellea

The best ICD-9-CM code for generalized, gross decay is either 521.03 dental caries extending into pulp as gross caries are usually classified as extending into pulp. However, if the dentist does not make mention of the carries extending into the pulp a better code is 521.09 other dental caries or 521.00 dental caries, unspecified as both of these codes elude to a type of decay that is not listed in a specific manner.