How the VA Rates TMJ
The VA rates temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction under Diagnostic Code 9905 (38 CFR §4.150, Schedule of Ratings: Dental and Oral Conditions), “Limited motion of temporomandibular articulation.” The rating is based purely on range of motion: how far you can open your jaw (interincisal range) and move it side to side (lateral excursion).
Diagnostic Code 9905: Rating Criteria
- 40%: interincisal range of 0–10mm.
- 30%: interincisal range of 11–20mm.
- 20%: interincisal range of 21–30mm.
- 10%: interincisal range of 31–40mm, or range of lateral excursion of 0–4mm.
The VA uses whichever measurement (interincisal range or lateral excursion) results in the higher rating. Note that DC 9905 ratings for limited jaw motion are not combined with ratings for loss of the mandible under other dental/oral codes for the same disability picture; a rater applies the single code that best fits the diagnosis.
Evidence: Range-of-Motion Measurements
A dental or oral surgery exam measuring your interincisal opening (in millimeters, from the edge of the upper front teeth to the edge of the lower front teeth at maximum opening) and lateral excursion is the core evidence. Imaging (panoramic X-ray or MRI of the joint) supporting a TMJ diagnosis strengthens the claim but the rating itself turns on the motion measurement, not the imaging.
Nexus: Connecting TMJ to Military Service
- Jaw trauma in service: a blow to the jaw, a fall, or blast exposure documented in service treatment records.
- Teeth grinding/clenching (bruxism): often linked to service-related stress or sleep disorders; a dental exam noting excessive wear can support this.
- Secondary to PTSD or a service-connected sleep condition: chronic jaw clenching from stress or disrupted sleep is a recognized secondary pathway; a nexus letter from a dentist or oral surgeon connecting the two is the key evidence.
What to Expect at Your C&P Exam
- The examiner (typically a dentist or oral surgeon) will measure your maximum jaw opening and lateral excursion with a ruler or caliper.
- Describe pain, clicking/popping, and how far you can comfortably open your mouth for eating, yawning, or speaking.
- Mention any history of jaw trauma, teeth grinding, or prior dental work related to your symptoms.
2026 Monthly Compensation Amounts
A 10% VA rating for TMJ pays $180.42 per month (2026 rate, veteran alone, no dependents). A 20% rating pays $356.66/month, a 30% rating pays $552.47/month, and a 40% rating pays $795.84/month. See the full 2026 VA compensation rate chart.
Use our VA disability rating calculator to see how TMJ interacts with your other conditions, or browse every rated condition at VA disability.