Currently, the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners allows dentists to inject neuromodulators, such as botulinum toxins (including Botox), for therapeutic purposes. This may include treating jaw pain and headaches but does not include purely cosmetic uses, such as for minimizing wrinkles. Under SB 1117, dentists would be able to provide cosmetic botulinum toxin injections after completing an approved training course.

SB 1117 would allow dentists to inject in a patient’s oral and maxillofacial region. It is important to note that this authorization is only for botulinum toxin or bioequivalent neuromodulators and does not include any authorization for dermal filler injections. SB 1117 would require the dentist to take a training course on administering neuromodulators. The bill does not set the length or specific content of the course; instead, it leaves the determination up to the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners to approve. The bill would allow the board to adopt rules and policies for this practice.

While most state dental boards have a policy regarding cosmetic injections, few have laws or rules directly allowing it. Recently, several states have adopted laws or rules that expressly allow dentists to inject for cosmetic purposes. This clarity puts dentists in a better position to compliantly offer these services. SB 1117 would solidly go along with this trend in authorizing dentists to perform these procedures. If you would like additional information, to read the language of the bill or to contact the sponsors or committee, you can find the information you need through this link SB 1117.