Nonunion of the Maxilla

DC 9903Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9903

A fracture of the upper jaw bone (maxilla) that has not healed properly, causing the bone segments to move abnormally. Rated based on the degree of displacement.

Rating Levels

You have nonunion of the maxilla with severe displacement. The bone segments move significantly, causing substantial difficulty with chewing, bite alignment, and possibly speech.

What the VA looks for

Nonunion of maxilla with severe displacement on imaging
Significant abnormal movement of bone segments
Substantial difficulty with chewing documented
Severe malocclusion affecting bite function
Possible speech impairment from maxillary instability

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the degree of displacement with imaging studies (CT scan).
⚠Not reporting functional impacts on chewing and bite alignment.
⚠Not distinguishing from malunion, which may be rated differently.
⚠Not claiming dental treatment eligibility through VA.

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…