Oral Cancer Residuals

DC 9900Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9900

Residual effects following treatment for cancer of the oral cavity, including the tongue, floor of the mouth, gums, cheeks, or palate. The VA rates based on the extent of tissue loss, functional impairment from surgery or radiation, and whether the cancer is in active treatment or remission.

How the VA rates this condition

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 9900

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9900. 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 are undergoing active treatment for oral cancer, or the cancer has metastasized. A 100% rating applies during active treatment, with re-evaluation after treatment concludes.

What the VA looks for

Active oral cancer under treatment (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy)
Or metastatic disease confirmed
Oncology treatment records documenting active treatment
Pathology and imaging confirming active or metastatic disease

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing during active treatment when a 100% rating is automatic — many veterans wait until after treatment, missing months of maximum compensation.
⚠Not documenting all residual effects of treatment including dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, speech changes, and taste loss — each may support a higher rating or separate secondary claim.
⚠Not connecting the cancer to in-service exposures such as Agent Orange, burn pits, contaminated water, or radiation — the nexus to service is critical.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by treatment such as depression, anxiety, dental deterioration from radiation, or nutritional deficiencies.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Dental and Oral Conditions
DBQ Oral and Dental Conditions Including Mouth, Lips, and Tongue

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Oral Cancer Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9900

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You are undergoing active treatment for oral cancer, or the cancer has metastasized. A 100% rating applies during active treatment, with re-evaluation after treatment concludes.

What the VA looks for

Active oral cancer under treatment (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy)
Or metastatic disease confirmed
Oncology treatment records documenting active treatment
Pathology and imaging confirming active or metastatic disease

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing during active treatment when a 100% rating is automatic — many veterans wait until after treatment, missing months of maximum compensation.

⚠Not documenting all residual effects of treatment including dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, speech changes, and taste loss — each may support a higher rating or separate secondary claim.

⚠Not connecting the cancer to in-service exposures such as Agent Orange, burn pits, contaminated water, or radiation — the nexus to service is critical.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by treatment such as depression, anxiety, dental deterioration from radiation, or nutritional deficiencies.