ICD-10 Code K04.0 – Pulpitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K04.0 – Pulpitis
What it is
K04.0 identifies inflammation of the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside a tooth. Use it when documentation states pulpitis, which may be acute or chronic.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include tooth pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, and discomfort on biting. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the dentist’s specific diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use K04.0 when the record clearly documents pulpitis as the diagnosis, including symptomatic inflamed pulp. It may also apply when the provider notes irreversible or reversible pulp inflammation without a more specific coded term. Check documentation if the note only describes toothache or caries-related pain.
Do not use for
Do not use K04.0 for dental caries alone, generalized tooth pain, or periapical abscess unless pulpitis is documented. If the chart does not confirm pulp inflammation, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Code the specific pulpitis diagnosis only when the provider names it; otherwise, query or rely on the documented dental condition.