Dentists could give moderate sedation to children without another anesthesia provider

A dentist could give moderate sedation without another anesthesia provider. This applies to dental patients under 13. The board's qualifications would include accredited residency training or an equivalent, plus a way for established dentists to show their qualifications. Dentists would need pediatric life support and airway training. They would have to tell families that a hospital could use extra anesthesia staff, possibly at a higher cost. The board could not limit moderate sedation to one way of giving it. This provision would take effect 60 days after passage.

The dental board would exempt certain dentists from the separate anesthesia provider requirement. This applies when a child under 13 receives general anesthesia or deep sedation during dental care. The dentist must be board eligible or board certified in dental anesthesiology or oral and maxillofacial surgery. Any board limits on the exemption must follow professional standards. A limit that unduly raises costs or reduces access would need strong evidence that it prevents real public harm. Dentists would still need pediatric life support and airway training and would have to explain the hospital option and its possible higher cost. This provision would take effect 60 days after passage.