AAO Advocacy Helps Secure In-Person Exam Rule in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has enacted a new law requiring an in-person examination before starting orthodontic treatment, joining a growing list of states adopting similar patient safety measures, according to the AAO.

Oklahoma has become the seventh state to enact legislation requiring an in-person examination before the start of orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) reports. The new law, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, adds Oklahoma to a list that includes Nevada, Florida, Illinois, Utah, West Virginia, and Georgia—all of which have implemented similar requirements between 2023 and 2025.

AAO Advocacy Helps Shape Senate Bill 669

The AAO worked closely with the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry to support and help amend Senate Bill 669. A key provision of the bill mandates that all patients beginning orthodontic care undergo an in-person examination with a dental professional. According to the AAO, this measure represents a significant step toward safeguarding patient health and ensuring informed treatment decisions.

The bill passed unanimously through the Oklahoma legislature—43-0 in the Senate and 82-0 in the House of Representatives.

Legislation Emerged in Response to Teledentistry Concerns

The AAO reports that the passage of SB669 was partially in response to the introduction of a separate bill, HB2899, which proposed a teledentistry model that the AAO deemed a risk to patient safety. “The original version of HB2899 posed serious concerns for patient health and safety, yet it quickly gained momentum among Oklahoma House and Senate leadership,” said Nathan Mick, AAO vice president of advocacy. “Our AAO Advocacy team moved decisively to play defense against HB2899 while simultaneously advancing a proactive strategy.”

Grassroots Support and Legal Resources Played Key Role

The AAO credits its member engagement in Oklahoma and support from the AAO Component Legal Support Fund as instrumental in this success. Financial backing allowed the organization to retain local legal counsel, Capital Plus Consultants, who helped navigate the legislative process.

A National Trend in Patient Safety Legislation

The AAO emphasizes that Oklahoma’s legislation may help shape future policy nationwide. “State lawmakers often look at similar laws in other states when developing their own legislation,” the organization noted. The AAO remains involved in the implementation of SB669 and continues to advocate for similar measures across the country.