ICD-10 Code K08.23 – Severe atrophy of the mandible (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K08.23 – Severe atrophy of the mandible
What it is
Severe atrophy of the mandible means marked loss of jawbone volume in the lower jaw. It usually reflects advanced resorption that can affect denture fit, oral function, and procedural planning.
Clinical signs
Common findings include a visibly reduced mandibular ridge, poor denture retention, and difficulty with oral prosthetic support. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K08.23 when the record specifically documents severe atrophy of the mandible. It is appropriate for encounters focused on oral evaluation, prosthodontic planning, or preoperative assessment where the mandibular bone loss is the stated diagnosis.
Code from the provider’s documentation, not from assumptions based on tooth loss alone. If the chart only notes atrophy without severity or identifies a different jaw site, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized bone loss, routine edentulous changes, or atrophy of the maxilla. Check documentation if the diagnosis is nonspecific or refers to another oral condition.
Coding tip
Confirm that “severe” and “mandible” are both documented before coding K08.23.