ICD-10 Code K04.5 – Chronic apical periodontitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K04.5 – Chronic apical periodontitis
What it is
K04.5 identifies chronic inflammation around the apex of a tooth root, usually related to long-standing pulpal infection. It is used when the condition is documented as chronic apical periodontitis.
Clinical signs
Findings may include persistent periapical tenderness, a nonvital tooth, and radiographic evidence of apical inflammatory change. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K04.5 when the provider documents chronic apical periodontitis, chronic periapical inflammation, or a similar diagnosis tied to the tooth apex. Code it when the record supports a chronic process rather than an acute abscess or other dental disorder.
If the note only describes tooth pain, pulp disease, or an unspecified periapical condition, check documentation before assigning K04.5.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute apical periodontitis, periapical abscess, or gingival disease. Check documentation if the diagnosis is broader, mixed, or not clearly chronic.
Coding tip
Code K04.5 only when the chart clearly names the chronic apical process; otherwise, query for the exact dental diagnosis.