The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has commented on proposed legislation in Kentucky that would license and regulate denturists in the state.
Denturists are trained to make and fit removable partial and full dentures. Currently, Kentuckians who need dentures must obtain them through a dentist.
FTC staff submitted a comment on the competitive implications of the proposed bill (HB 77) and recommends that the Kentucky Legislature consider the "potential benefits of enhanced competition among denture providers" that could be facilitated by the bill and "maintain only those scope of practice limitations necessary to ensure patient health and safety."
"Competition among oral healthcare professionals has the potential to benefit consumers by improving access to care, containing costs, and encouraging the development of more effective care delivery models," the comment states.
"If denturists can provide safe, quality care to patients, allowing them to practice at a level commensurate with their training may bring benefits to Kentuckians in the form of increased access to care, more choice in how their care is delivered, and more cost-effective treatment," the comment reads. "Because these benefits of competition could be significant to Kentuckians who need dentures, we encourage the Legislature to carefully consider whether denturists can appropriately provide dentures, consistent with patient health and safety."
The FTC comment was sent to the bill's sponsor, Rep. Tom Burch (D-Louisville).
