Subluxation of Mandible

DC 9905Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9905

Recurrent partial dislocation (subluxation) of the mandible from the temporomandibular joint. The jaw slips out of its normal position causing pain, locking, and difficulty closing the mouth. Rated based on the frequency of subluxation episodes and resulting functional impairment.

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 9905

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9905. 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 experience frequent episodes of mandibular subluxation that may require manual reduction. Episodes occur multiple times per month and cause significant pain and difficulty eating.

What the VA looks for

Frequent subluxation episodes documented (multiple per month)
Manual reduction required for some episodes
Significant pain during and after episodes
Difficulty eating due to fear of triggering subluxation
Emergency room visits or urgent care for jaw relocation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of subluxation episodes — keep a detailed log of every episode including date, duration, what triggered it, and whether you needed medical help to relocate the jaw.
⚠Not getting imaging during or shortly after an episode to confirm the subluxation — if possible, seek medical attention during an episode so it can be documented.
⚠Not reporting the impact on daily activities such as eating, yawning, and talking — describe how the fear of subluxation limits your diet and social activities.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Dental and Oral Conditions
DBQ Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Subluxation of Mandible

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9905

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You experience frequent episodes of mandibular subluxation that may require manual reduction. Episodes occur multiple times per month and cause significant pain and difficulty eating.

What the VA looks for

Frequent subluxation episodes documented (multiple per month)
Manual reduction required for some episodes
Significant pain during and after episodes
Difficulty eating due to fear of triggering subluxation
Emergency room visits or urgent care for jaw relocation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of subluxation episodes — keep a detailed log of every episode including date, duration, what triggered it, and whether you needed medical help to relocate the jaw.

⚠Not getting imaging during or shortly after an episode to confirm the subluxation — if possible, seek medical attention during an episode so it can be documented.

⚠Not reporting the impact on daily activities such as eating, yawning, and talking — describe how the fear of subluxation limits your diet and social activities.