ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for submandibular abscess
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Abscess (connective tissue) (embolic) (fistulous) (infective) (metastatic) (multiple) (pernicious) (pyogenic) (septic) › submandibular (region) (space) (triangle)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding submandibular abscess
The ICD-10-CM code for submandibular abscess is K12.2 (Cellulitis and abscess of mouth). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on K12.2.
Within K12 (stomatitis and related lesions), K12.2 is specifically for cellulitis and abscess of mouth. Related codes cover recurrent oral aphthae (K12.0), other forms of stomatitis (K12.1) and oral mucositis (ulcerative) (K12.3).
The conditions in its Excludes2 note aren't part of K12.2, but may be coded alongside it if the patient has both: abscess of salivary gland (K11.3), abscess of tongue (K14.0), periapical abscess (K04.6-K04.7), periodontal abscess (K05.21) and 1 more.
Use an additional code to identify: alcohol abuse and dependence (F10.-), exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z77.22), exposure to tobacco smoke in the perinatal period (P96.81), history of tobacco dependence (Z87.891), occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z57.31) and 2 more.
More specific submandibular abscess codes (official index)
- gland K11.3 — Abscess of salivary gland
Common questions about submandibular abscess ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for submandibular abscess?
- K12.2 — Cellulitis and abscess of mouth. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: K11.3.
What is the ICD-10 code for gland submandibular abscess?
- K11.3 — Abscess of salivary gland.
Is K12.2 billable?
- Yes. K12.2 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can K12.2 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict K12.2 as a principal diagnosis.
Is K12.2 a CC or MCC?
- K12.2 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.