POLICY REGARDING THE USE OF RESTALYN, BOTOX, AND OTHER DERMA FILLERS BY LICENSED DENTISTS

Preamble: The purpose of this policy is to clarify the Ohio State Dental Board’s (Board) position regarding the use of Botox, and Restalyn and other Derma-Fillers, by licensed dentists in the state of Ohio.

The Dental Practice Act gives the Board discretion to make determinations as to what is included in the practice of dentistry, what is and is not within the scope of practice for dentists, and what acts or omissions qualify as not meeting the accepted standards of care for the profession.

Over the past few years the Board has considered the question of whether the use of Botox, Restalyn and/or other dermal fillers was within the scope of practice of dentistry. The Board has revisited this issue. The Board determined that the use of these materials and agents can be considered within the scope of dentistry. However, these treatments are limited to use only in the oral and maxillofacial areas. There are further limitations based on the specific education and training received by the dentist providing these services. This insures an adequate diagnosis will be made and an ability to recognize and treat complications.

The education and training required is to be equal to that provided by ADA accredited programs within the dental schools and residency programs. This is the basis for determining the scope of practice for dentists. Therefore, as an example, a periodontist cannot provide lip augmentation services as that is not within the scope of practice for periodontists; an orthodontist cannot administer Botox, as that is not within the scope of practice for orthodontists.

It is important to keep in mind that this policy deals with an important, ever evolving area of practice. Please direct all questions regarding this subject to the Board office

(November 7, 2007)