Ankylosis of Temporomandibular Joint

DC 9905Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9905

Fusion or severe stiffness of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) causing the jaw to lock in a fixed position. This condition severely limits or completely prevents jaw opening and is rated based on the degree of immobility and the resulting functional impairment.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 9905

Rating range

30% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9905. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have complete ankylosis of the TMJ — your jaw is fully fused and completely immobile. You cannot open your mouth at all and require a liquid diet or alternative feeding method.

What the VA looks for

Complete TMJ ankylosis confirmed on CT or MRI
Zero jaw opening — complete immobility
Requires liquid diet or alternative feeding
Severe nutritional impact and weight changes documented
Speech significantly impaired

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting advanced imaging (CT or MRI) that clearly shows the bony or fibrous ankylosis — standard X-rays may not adequately demonstrate the fusion.
⚠Not having inter-incisal range precisely measured during the C&P exam — the rating is based on exact millimeter measurements.
⚠Not documenting the impact on nutrition and diet — describe what you can and cannot eat, any weight loss, and whether you need supplemental feeding.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as malnutrition, depression, or speech impairment caused by the inability to open the jaw.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Dental and Oral Conditions
DBQ Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Ankylosis of Temporomandibular Joint

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9905

Rating range

30% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have complete ankylosis of the TMJ — your jaw is fully fused and completely immobile. You cannot open your mouth at all and require a liquid diet or alternative feeding method.

What the VA looks for

Complete TMJ ankylosis confirmed on CT or MRI
Zero jaw opening — complete immobility
Requires liquid diet or alternative feeding
Severe nutritional impact and weight changes documented
Speech significantly impaired

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting advanced imaging (CT or MRI) that clearly shows the bony or fibrous ankylosis — standard X-rays may not adequately demonstrate the fusion.

⚠Not having inter-incisal range precisely measured during the C&P exam — the rating is based on exact millimeter measurements.

⚠Not documenting the impact on nutrition and diet — describe what you can and cannot eat, any weight loss, and whether you need supplemental feeding.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as malnutrition, depression, or speech impairment caused by the inability to open the jaw.