Relating to requirements for licensees under the purview of the dental board relating to orthodontia services

This bill prohibits a licensee under the purview of the dental board who provides treatment for the correction of malpositions of human teeth or the initial use of orthodontic appliances from beginning orthodontic treatment on a new patient unless either the licensee performs an initial in-person or teledentistry examination of the teeth and supporting structures of the new patient prior to beginning orthodontic treatment, or the new patient provides the licensee with the portion of the dental record taken within the prior six months of an in-person or teledentistry examination of the teeth and supporting structures of the new patient prior to the licensee beginning orthodontic treatment. The required examination shall include any appropriate conventional or digital radiographs or digital imaging that are necessary to develop a suitable orthodontic diagnosis and treatment plan. The bill defines “new patient” as a person whom a licensee has not examined, for whom a licensee has not provided care, or for whom a licensee has not otherwise provided consultation during the two-year period immediately prior to the patient’s most recent appointment.