Sialadenitis (Salivary Gland Inflammation)

DC 9906Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9906

Inflammation of the salivary glands (usually the parotid or submandibular glands) causing painful swelling in the cheek or under the jaw, dry mouth, and difficulty eating. Can become chronic with repeated episodes.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 9906

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9906. 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 chronic sialadenitis with frequent episodes (more than four per year), significant dry mouth requiring saliva substitutes, gland damage on imaging, or you have required surgical removal of a salivary gland.

What the VA looks for

Frequent episodes (more than four per year)
Significant dry mouth requiring saliva substitutes
Gland damage on CT or ultrasound imaging
Surgical excision of salivary gland
Post-surgical complications
Dietary modification required

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of flares — keep a log of every episode of swelling, pain, and antibiotic courses. The number of episodes per year directly affects your rating.
⚠Not connecting to dehydration, heat exposure, or medications used during military service — these are common causes of salivary gland inflammation in service members.
⚠Not filing for secondary dental conditions — chronic dry mouth from damaged salivary glands accelerates tooth decay and gum disease, which can be rated separately.
⚠Not getting imaging (ultrasound or CT) to document gland damage — objective evidence of gland inflammation or destruction supports higher ratings.

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 9906

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Frequent episodes (more than four per year)
Significant dry mouth requiring saliva substitutes
Gland damage on CT or ultrasound imaging
Surgical excision of salivary gland
Post-surgical complications
Dietary modification required

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of flares — keep a log of every episode of swelling, pain, and antibiotic courses. The number of episodes per year directly affects your rating.

⚠Not connecting to dehydration, heat exposure, or medications used during military service — these are common causes of salivary gland inflammation in service members.

⚠Not filing for secondary dental conditions — chronic dry mouth from damaged salivary glands accelerates tooth decay and gum disease, which can be rated separately.

⚠Not getting imaging (ultrasound or CT) to document gland damage — objective evidence of gland inflammation or destruction supports higher ratings.