Board committee backs rule updates: RDAs may take clinical CE online; orthodontic informed-consent language clarified
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Summary
The licensing committee recommended re-adoption of chapters 114–116 and proposed allowing registered dental assistants to take clinical continuing education online; committee also cleared language to implement House Bill 4070 requiring written patient acknowledgment of counseling about orthodontic options and risks.
The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners’ licensing committee on Feb. 19 recommended several rule actions, including readoption of chapters 114–116, a proposed change to allow registered dental assistants to take clinical continuing-education (CE) hours online, and clarifying language for rules implementing House Bill 4070 on orthodontic devices.
Board staff told the committee that chapters 114–116 were up for readoption and that three written comments had been received; the committee voted to readopt the chapters as proposed. Staff then presented narrower rule updates: 114.2 to recognize digital and film X‑rays, 114.3 to correct punctuation and typographical errors, and 115.4 to update a statutory citation. The committee adopted each of those proposed rules unanimously.
On continuing education for registered dental assistants, staff proposed changing rule 114.12 to allow clinical CE hours to be completed via online formats (including live online or self‑study) instead of requiring in‑person attendance. Dr. John Dossett, president of the Texas Academy of General Dentistry, told the committee that the change would reduce barriers for RDAs—especially those in rural areas—by making clinically focused CE more accessible while maintaining standards of care: “We strongly support ensuring that our RDAs have a flexible, reliable, and affordable access to continuing education opportunities,” he said.
Separately, the committee discussed proposed rules to implement House Bill 4070 (orthodontic devices). Members asked whether the statute’s reference to “counsel” required additional paperwork. Staff proposed language adding a required written acknowledgment, signed by the patient, documenting counseling on orthodontic options and risks; the committee approved the language and will carry the proposed wording to the full board.
Why it matters: Allowing clinical CE online could broaden access for RDAs who have trouble attending live courses. Clarifying the HB 4070 rule language will guide dentists on the documentation expected for orthodontic counseling.
What’s next: The committee will forward proposed rule changes and clarifying language to the full board for adoption steps required by the Texas Register process.