Malunion of Mandible

DC 9904Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9904

A condition where a fractured mandible (lower jaw) heals in an improper position, causing misalignment of the jaw and teeth. The VA rates based on the degree of displacement and resulting loss of chewing function.

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 9904

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9904. 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

Your mandible healed with severe displacement causing significant malocclusion and substantial loss of chewing function. You have difficulty eating most foods and may experience chronic pain.

What the VA looks for

Severe displacement confirmed on imaging
Significant malocclusion documented
Substantial loss of masticatory function
Chronic pain with jaw use documented
Difficulty eating most foods noted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting imaging (panoramic radiograph or CT) that clearly shows the degree of displacement — the rating depends on whether displacement is slight, moderate, or severe.
⚠Not having the examiner document loss of masticatory function — describe specific difficulties with chewing and foods you cannot eat.
⚠Not distinguishing malunion from nonunion — malunion means the bone healed in the wrong position, while nonunion means the bone never healed. These are rated under different criteria.
⚠Not filing for secondary TMJ disorder — malunion commonly causes TMJ problems that may warrant a separate rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Dental and Oral Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9904

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your mandible healed with severe displacement causing significant malocclusion and substantial loss of chewing function. You have difficulty eating most foods and may experience chronic pain.

What the VA looks for

Severe displacement confirmed on imaging
Significant malocclusion documented
Substantial loss of masticatory function
Chronic pain with jaw use documented
Difficulty eating most foods noted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting imaging (panoramic radiograph or CT) that clearly shows the degree of displacement — the rating depends on whether displacement is slight, moderate, or severe.

⚠Not having the examiner document loss of masticatory function — describe specific difficulties with chewing and foods you cannot eat.

⚠Not distinguishing malunion from nonunion — malunion means the bone healed in the wrong position, while nonunion means the bone never healed. These are rated under different criteria.

⚠Not filing for secondary TMJ disorder — malunion commonly causes TMJ problems that may warrant a separate rating.