A survey of U.S. state dental boards conducted by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) shows that 21 states allow dentists to use Botox, but stipulations almost always surround its usage.
Fifteen states (29%) have no policy on Botox usage by dentists, but three states are considering adding or making changes to their policies in the coming months, according to an article in the AGD Transcript (October 2010).
Some states only allow the use of Botox for pain management, while others only allow oral and maxillofacial surgeons to perform Botox procedures.
Maryland is considering adding or making changes to its Botox policies. To determine how many general dentists want to provide Botox, the Maryland AGD surveyed its members last month.
Surveys went to approximately 1,000 Maryland AGD members, and 21% responded. Members were asked if they would offer Botox in their offices; half said they would, half said they wouldn't. Another question revealed that 68% of respondents would be interested in attending a continuing education course covering Botox, the AGD story noted.
Some state dental boards have expressed concern about the training available for general dentists to allow them to provide Botox.
Allergan does not directly provide training on the use of Botox; instead, the company provides grants to third-party vendors who have received accreditation from the American Academy of Continuing Medical Education to conduct the training, the AGD noted.
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