ICD-10 Code K02.52 – Dental caries on pit and fissure surface penetrating into dentin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K02.52 – Dental caries on pit and fissure surface penetrating into dentin
What it is
K02.52 identifies tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of teeth where the lesion has progressed through enamel into dentin. Use it when documentation specifies pit and fissure caries with dentin involvement.
Clinical signs
Findings may include visible cavitation, discoloration, or a rough fissure lesion on occlusal surfaces. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the record confirms dentin penetration.
When to use this code
Use this code when the dentist documents pit and fissure caries that has extended into dentin, not just enamel. It fits cases described as occlusal caries, fissure decay, or similar wording when depth is clearly stated. If the note does not specify dentin involvement, check documentation before assigning K02.52.
Do not use for
Do not use K02.52 for caries limited to enamel, smooth surface decay, or root caries. If the record is nonspecific or another tooth surface is documented, choose the more accurate code.
Coding tip
Look for explicit documentation of “pit and fissure” and “into dentin” before coding K02.52.