In response to receiving inquiries about dentists administering Botulinum-A (Botox) and a patient complaint on the matter, the Council recently considered the professional obligations of dentists in this area.
The Council’s Statement on the Administration of Botulinum-A by Dentists was first approved in May 2005 by the then Dentist Board.
At its September 2015 meeting, the Council reconfirmed the positions expressed in the statement.
The statement reads:
The scope of general dental practice includes the administration of Botulinum-A restricted to the nasolabial folds and/or perioral area.
The administration of Botulinum-A is regarded as an advanced area of practice.
This means that dentists wishing to administer Botulinum-A (in the nasolabial folds and/or perioral area):
- must be able to demonstrate they have the requisite knowledge and training to undertake this procedure including knowledge of the relevant scientific literature. This means having documented evidence of training including formal qualifications, courses, continuing professional development and supervised or self-directed training and evidence of logged experience in this area
- must ensure the patient’s informed consent for the procedure. The patient should be aware of the methods the practitioner has been trained in and the other options available to them such as treatment by a specialist or another practitioner; must understand the nature of the service/procedure and the possible risks and side effects; and should have a realistic expectation of the results that can be achieved. There must be a clear and comprehensive record of the consent process
- should be aware of the indemnity position in relation to new techniques and procedures.
Dentists administering Botulinum-A are reminded of their professional obligation to comply with the statement expressed above.
