Loss of the rounded end of the lower jawbone that forms the joint with the skull on one or both sides.
Because the rating turns on the established fact of condyloid process loss, the most important evidence is diagnostic imaging that confirms the loss. The regulation specifically recognizes conventional X-ray, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, radionuclide bone scanning, and ultrasonography as acceptable imaging studies for VA compensation purposes.
Operative reports, surgical pathology records, or other medical records documenting when and how the condyle was lost also help establish the diagnosis. If the loss causes related problems — such as changes in speech, smell, taste, nerve function, or breathing — those findings would need to be documented separately through their own relevant records and exam results, since VA rates each of those impairments under different diagnostic codes. Statements from you or others describing how jaw function affects your daily life and work may support the overall picture.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
