The proposed legislation requires an in-person dental examination and X-ray review before beginning most orthodontic treatments provided through telehealth platforms.
US congressman Brian Babin (R-TX) has introduced the Oversight of Responsible Teledentistry for Healthy Outcomes (ORTHO) Act, HR 9829, to establish patient safety standards for orthodontic treatment provided through teledentistry.
Establishing Safety Baselines
The legislation, supported by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), aims to set safety requirements while maintaining access to telehealth services. Key provisions of the bill include requiring an in-person dental examination before most dental treatments can be provided via teledentistry, with exceptions for emergencies, public health programs, and initial orthodontic screenings.
Additionally, the act mandates an in-person confirmation and X-ray review before orthodontic treatment begins. It authorizes enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general against violators and allows patients to seek damages for willful violations.
Balancing Access and Clinical Evaluation
Babin, who serves as chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and has been a practicing dentist for over 40 years, emphasized the need for clinical evaluations prior to beginning care.
“Teledentistry has expanded access to care for countless Americans, and when used appropriately, it can be a valuable tool. But convenience should never come at the expense of patient safety,” says Brian Babin, US congressman, in a release. “Patients deserve the confidence of knowing their treatment decisions are based on an in-person evaluation, appropriate diagnostic records, and sound clinical judgment, not solely on an online interaction.”
Industry Support
The AAO endorsed the legislation, noting its role in establishing a framework for innovation while prioritizing patient protection in orthodontic care.
“Teledentistry and artificial intelligence are transforming the delivery of health care and can expand access to care when deployed in ways that preserve patient safety and professional accountability,” says Mike Durbin, president of the AAO, in a release. “The ORTHO Act establishes commonsense patient safety standards that ensure orthodontic treatment begins with an in-person clinical examination, appropriate diagnostic records, and the professional judgment of a licensed health care professional.”
Photo: ID 2942352 © Alberto Dubini | Dreamstime.com
