Bill would bar misleading use of dental specialty titles after 2020 rule changes, advocates say
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Summary
House Bill 4,593 would clarify Michigan's public health code to ensure only dentists licensed in recognized specialties may represent themselves as specialists, closing a perceived loophole after a 2020 lawsuit and subsequent rule changes allowed broader marketing.
Representative Beierlein and Bill Sullivan of the Michigan Dental Association told the committee that HB 4,593 addresses consumer confusion caused by a 2020 lawsuit that led to rule changes allowing general dentists to market themselves as specialists in unrecognized areas such as implantology or cosmetic dentistry. Sullivan said patients sometimes do not realize the difference and seek complex care based on misleading claims, leading to complications and costly corrective procedures.
The bill would clarify that only dentists licensed in recognized specialty fields may represent themselves as specialists under Michigan's public health code. Supporters said the change would restore honesty in advertising, protect patients, and uphold the integrity of those who have earned specialty credentials. Kevin McKinney was recorded in the committee support record as representing orthodontists.
No roll-call vote on HB 4,593 is recorded in this meeting; the committee took testimony and read cards from supporting organizations into the record.
