Connecticut: Stop Dental Scope Expansion
In February, ASPS and the Connecticut Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) submitted joint comments in opposition to a bill considered before the Connecticut Public Health Committee that would expand the scope of practice for dentists in the state. Under current law, there are strong patient protections in place that explicitly prohibit dentists from performing cosmetic surgery or procedures on patients. However, the legislation would allow dentists to administer neurotoxins and dermal fillers. In addition to the co-signed comments, the societies also submitted ASPS's official policy statement on the administration of botulinum toxin neuromodulators outlining the complications that can arise if neuromodulators are administered inappropriately.
ASPS members Patrick Felice, MD and Darrick Antell, MD – a dual degree surgeon and dentist – testified before the Committee highlighting the discrepancies in medical training, complications that can occur and lack of hospital privileges. ASPS assisted CSPS in preparing this testimony and supplied follow-up information to members of the Public Health Committee. CSPS was also awarded a $10,000 ASPS State Advocacy Grant to combat dental scope expansion efforts in the state legislature.