The legal landscape around sedation dentistry is evolving. Here’s what you need to know.
Sedation dentistry is an option many patients seek out, with the dentists who offer it setting themselves apart. If you’re ready to become one of those dentists, there’s a lot you need to know—including the evolving legal landscape.
Beyond the typical training and permits required by state dental boards for different levels of oral and IV sedation, many states have new requirements. But fear not—David Palmer, Esq, Regulatory Counsel at DOCS Education, details the changes and what practices need to do to provide safe sedation dentistry.
Changing Standards of Care
Significant emphasis is being placed on capnography, which measures expired CO. and provides realtime insights into a patient's status. Previously, it was required only for deep or moderate IV sedation. Many states now require it for all levels.
“It helps detect early signs of potential complications like hypoventilation, airway obstruction, or respiratory depression," Palmer said, "which are common risks associated with sedation."
Emergency and Pediatric Training
There also have been changes to both team training and pediatric requirements. For training, many states now require permit holders to have written emergency protocols readily available, and to run emergency drill scenarios yearly for renewal. Such training, Palmer said, helps prepare teams to react calmly if a patient experiences issues such as myocardial infarction or allergic reactions.
On the pediatric side, "allages” permits were once the norm. Many states now require specific training for sedating children 12 years and younger, Palmer said, recognizing these patients' unique needs.
The Guidance You Need
DOCS Education provides various levels of sedation training, with advisors who can help determine which courses are right for you and walk you through your state’s requirements.
“Implementing sedation into your practice, especially for those who are new to it, requires compliance with myriad rules,” Palmer said, “so having that support along the way really helps to organize—and in many ways expedite—the process to implement it more seamlessly into your practice.”
