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…
Loss of part or all of the soft palate at the back of the mouth, which affects swallowing and speech by allowing air and food to enter the nasal passages. Rated based on how much it interferes with breathing and speech.
The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.
Diagnostic code
DC 9912
Rating range
0% – 30%
Rating levels
4
Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9912. 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 complete or near-complete loss of the soft palate with significant difficulty breathing and unintelligible speech. Air and food regularly pass into the nasal passages.
What the VA looks for
Conditions commonly associated with Loss of Soft Palate 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