Condition Rating Guides
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, Press 1 · Text 838255 · Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Death of jaw bone tissue caused by medications, most commonly bisphosphonates (used to treat osteoporosis) or anti-cancer drugs. This causes exposed bone in the mouth, pain, infection, and difficulty eating.
The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.
Diagnostic code
DC 9913
Rating range
10% – 50%
Rating levels
4
Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9913. 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.
You have severe, extensive jaw bone necrosis requiring major jaw reconstruction, or you have refractory disease that has not responded to multiple surgeries, with severe functional impairment of eating and speaking.
What the VA looks for
Conditions commonly associated with Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) or rated under the same body system.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
Loss of Teeth (Due to Bone Loss)
Jaw Fracture Residuals
Chronic Osteomyelitis of the Jaw
Nonunion of the Mandible
Loss of Hard Palate
Partial Loss of Mandible
Partial Loss of Maxilla