Soft tissue injury of the mouth, other than tongue or lips (DC 7200)

Body system: Digestive SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.114

Soft tissue injuries of the mouth (DC 7200) cover damage to the gums, hard or soft palate, cheeks (buccal mucosa), and floor of the mouth, OTHER than the tongue (DC 7202) or lips (DC 7201). DC 7200 itself has no rating percentage. The VA rates these injuries entirely under the SCAR codes: DC 7800 (head/face/neck disfiguring scars) for the disfigurement aspect, plus DC 7804 (unstable or painful scars) when applicable. The two codes can be applied together when both bases apply, and combine under 38 CFR § 4.25.

Rating levels

  • -1% — DC 7200 does not have its own rating ladder. The VA rates soft tissue injuries of the mouth (other than tongue or lips, which are covered by DC 7201) entirely under the SCAR codes: DC 7800 (Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, of the head, face, or neck, or other disfigurement of the head, face, or neck) for the disfigurement aspect, plus DC 7804 (Scar(s) unstable or painful) when applicable. The actual percentage depends on the number and characteristics of the resulting scars or disfigurement, and whether the scars are unstable (frequently breaking down) or painful. The two codes can be applied together when both bases for compensation are present, and combine under 38 CFR § 4.25. Includes injuries to the gums, hard or soft palate, cheeks (buccal mucosa), and the floor of the mouth.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.