The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners Newsletter [Important Updates] 

In this episode of Talking with the Toothcop, I share some sobering news that recently happened in Kansas. I’ll also share some important updates that dentists need to be aware of that were highlighted in the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners Newsletter. Stay up-to-date on the latest dentistry compliance issues—don’t miss it. 

Outline of This Episode [0:21] 3-year-old boy dies during dental procedure [3:13] Get your dental unit waterlines tested through ProEdge! [4:30] Electronic Prescribing Waiver [6:03] Texas administrative code Rule 108.7 sub-section 16 [7:44] Tele-dentistry rule (HB2056) passed [12:50] Questions about Rule 108.7 sub-section 16 [14:33] Do dentists prescribe anxiety medication frequently?  [15:26] Learn more about protectIt dental’s emergency medical kit [16:43] The Professional Recovery Network 3-year-old Boy Dies During Dental Procedure

A 3-year-old boy in Wichita, Kansas went in for a simple procedure. He was sedated to have some teeth removed after a gum infection. Unfortunately, something went awry during the procedure and the boy passed away after being transported to a nearby hospital. The incident is currently under investigation though it appears there was no wrongdoing. 

However, incidents like these are a sobering reminder to have your dental office prepared in case of emergencies. You need a written protocol in place, your team needs to be aware of their role, and it needs to be referenced as often as possible. 

Electronic Prescribing Waiver

As of January 1, 2021, the Texas Health and Safety Code 481.0755 dictates that

“Prescriptions for controlled substances be issued electronically, except in limited

circumstances, or unless a waiver has been granted by the appropriate agency.” 

The waiver applies to dentists that issue prescriptions for controlled substances—but don’t prescribe many at all. They can apply for a waiver to avoid setting up electronic prescribing. If granted, the waiver allows dentists to write up to 25 prescriptions for controlled substances per year. You can re-apply for your waiver up to 30 days before it expires (it lasts a year from when it’s issued). 

Please Note: Many drugs that you may not consider are classified as controlled substances. Do your research and don’t let yourself get caught off guard by this. 

Texas administrative code Rule 108.7 sub-section 16

Rule 108.7 sub-section 16 was the COVID rule. It’s now been replaced with what was sub-section 17: You must “Hold a Level 1 permit (Minimal Sedation permit) issued by the Board before prescribing and/or administering Halcion (triazolam), and should administer Halcion (triazolam) in an in-office setting.” Basically, if you want to treat patients with these meds, you must hold a Level 1 permit. 

In the newsletter, the featured a question a reader asked, “Can I prescribe or dispense a drug for sedation without a sedation permit?” The answer is no. You have to have a minimal sedation permit to prescribe sedation medications to patients (dosage recommendations in board rules 110.1 and 110.4).

Texas Legislative House Bill 2056 Passes

The bill passed on June 16th, 2021. But on August 11th at 1 pm, the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners will host a stakeholder meeting to address the specific rules for teledentistry. This is your opportunity to make your voice heard and shape these rules on the front end. What can you do? Look at other state’s regulations and see what they’re doing and what their recommendations are. Too often dentists don’t get involved when they have the opportunity. If you’re not involved, you can’t complain about it! I think we will see rules formed by March. 

Resources & People Mentioned Learn more about protectIt dental at https://dentalcompliance.com/drugkit or call them at 888-878-8916 and tell them that the Toothcop sent you! Get your dental unit waterlines tested through ProEdge! 3-year-old Boy Dies During Dental Procedure The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners Newsletter TWT Episode: Electronic Prescribing of Controlled Substances Texas administrative code Rule 108.7 sub-section 16 https://tsbde.texas.gov/ The Professional Recovery Network Connect With Duane https://www.dentalcompliance.com/ toothcop(at)dentalcompliance.com On Facebook On Twitter On LinkedIn On Youtube