Dentists and Dermal Filler Procedures

By Cleah Sphan


In numerous countries, it is very common that dermal fillers are used every day, in many cosmetic procedures. However, guidance dictates that these procedures be performed by healthcare professionals that are trained in this procedure. Until the recent past, this procedure was primarily performed by plastic surgeons or dermatologists. For certain kinds of conditions, dentists in some states in America have been certified to administer dermal fillers on patients.

Below, we will be going over some of the guidelines regarding dentists that perform dermal filler treatments.

A bit about dermal fillers

Hyaluronic acid is the main component in dermal fillers, these are contained in the skin already as a natural ingredient. As we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid within the skin reduces significantly causing lines and wrinkles. Wrinkles and lines are reduced by using dermal fillers, this will make skin appear younger and brighter. The lips are another area where these fillers can be used, as lips can be enhanced this way.

Dermal fillers and Dentists

There has been a fair bit of controversy regarding whether or not dentists should in fact be injecting dermal fillers into patients. The claim that opponents of this sometimes make is that dentists are trained in the oral cavity and not extensive facial anatomy. If you were to ask a dentist you would get a different answer, as during their training an intensive knowledge in the musculature of the face is needed as they relate to dentistry procedures.

Prescription and administration of dermal fillers by dentists has now been approved by the California dental board. The recent changes are being praised by dentists, because according to them, they can deliver these treatments with the necessary training they have. However, there are limitations to what it can be used for with the board clearly stating that dermal fillers can be used by dentists as long as it is used for dental therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, proper training is essential before being permitted to inject them.

The guidelines vary between states. Dentists are only allowed to use dermal filler injections for dental reasons after a training program that lasts 21 hours, in the state of Georgia, according to the Georgia Dental Association.

Limitations involved

Dermal filler injections appear to be more and more accepted in states in the United States according to a dental board review, but it is limited to being used only for therapeutic dental related issues. Cosmetic injection or other reasons of using dermal fillers not related to dentistry are not permitted, and there are serious legal issues surrounding it. It is essential that every dentist check with the local state board to see if they would be allowed to inject dermal fillers should do receive the right training.

Conclusion

With each passing year, the advancements in dentistry accumulate, and this goes for cosmetic surgery as well. The injection of dermal fillers is permitted nowadays for issues that are involved directly in dentistry, but for cosmetic reasons, dentists are extremely limited in what they are allowed to do. Dental boards may in fact allow dentists in time to treat patients using dermal filler injections for cosmetic reasons, but dentists must refer to the stipulations set up by the boards in their state of origin at this time for guidance on this.




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