Teledentistry Regulations in Your State

State-by-State Teledentistry Quick Facts

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Alabama

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Alabama. No explicit definition of teledentistry or telemedicine, but the telemedicine provider manual requires services must be provided via interactive audio/visual system which allows two way communication.

Expanded Functions

• Dental Hygienists are not allowed to provide direct access care
• Dental Assistants may only function under direct supervision.

Medicaid

Alabama Medicaid reimburses for some live video telemedicine procedures.

Payment Parity

No payment parity laws in place.

Note

In practices with many locations, teledentistry allows remote monitoring of associate dentists’ treatment plans, live consultations with patients, and robust visual collaboration.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Alaska

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Alaska. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions:

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Therapist and Expanded Practice Dental Hygienist to have a collaborating relationship with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicare

Medicare will reimburse both synchronous and asynchronous teledentistry services.

Payment Parity

Private payers and Medicaid are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Arizona

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Arizona.

Expanded Functions:

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Therapist or Affiliated Practice Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Application of fluoride varnish and sealants may be performed by Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) under general supervision. EFDAS may also place interim therapeutic restorations under the direction of a licensed dentist following a consultation conducted through teledentistry.
• As of May 3, 2018, dental therapy has been approved by Arizona legislature. A dental therapist who completes 400 clinical hours under the direct supervision of a dentist may enter into a written collaborative practice agreement and subsequently practice without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Arizona statutes specifically mandate live video coverage of teledentistry services for enrollees under the age of 21.

Payment Parity

Private payers and Medicaid are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Arkansas

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Arkansas. While Arkansas does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect dental hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an instant connection with a dentist.
• Under general supervision, dental hygienists are able to provide limited services to patients of record without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine.

Payment Parity

Parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in California

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in California.

Expanded Functions

A dental hygienist may place interim therapeutic agents in a dental office setting under indirect supervision of a dentist or through telehealth supervision. A dentist can supervise up to 5 dental hygienists under telehealth supervision and is required to diagnose and provide instruction prior to the procedure.

Medicaid

Medi-Cal (California’s version of Medicaid) permits reimbursement for both synchronous and asynchronous teledentistry services.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Note

Teledentistry can enhance the referral process through increasing efficient communications between dental hygienists, dentists, and specialists.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Colorado

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Colorado. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

A dental hygienist may place interim therapeutic agents in a dental office setting under indirect supervision of a dentist or through telehealth supervision. A dentist can supervise up to 5 dental hygienists under telehealth supervision and is required to diagnose and provide instruction prior to the procedure.

Medicaid

Allowed coverage of telemedicine under Medicaid.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Note

Teledentistry can enhance the referral process through increasing efficient communications between dental hygienists, dentists, and specialists.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Connecticut

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Connecticut. While Connecticut does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist
• Dental hygienists can receive direct reimbursement by third party payers.
• Public Health Dental Hygienists may use teledentistry to instantly connect with a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine services and for limited asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

Since 2015, Connecticut has had telemedicine parity laws in effect that allow coverage under Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Delaware

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in Delaware. One of the few states to discuss telemedicine and telehealth within the dental statutes.

Expanded Functions

• Dental hygienists may provide services under general supervision in the dental practice or at off-site locations such as schools, state institutions, federally qualified health centers, and nonprofit organizations.
• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to effectively collaborate with a supervising dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine only.

Payment Parity

Telemedicine parity law in place that allows coverage under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Florida

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Florida. While Florida does have a definition for telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice under general supervision and in off-site locations to their supervising dentist.
• Dental hygienists are able to provide many services without supervision of a dentist. Services include application of fluorides, supervising the oral hygiene care of patients, and dental charting of the hard and soft tissues.
• Currently, dental assistants may provide limited services under general supervision and without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Limited reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Florida does not have telemedicine parity laws in effect.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Georgia

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in Georgia.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Hygienist to have a supervising relationship with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

Georgia Medicaid regulations list dentists and dental hygienists as Eligible Distant Practitioners for live video reimbursement.

Payment Parity

Private payers and Medicaid are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.\

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Hawaii

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Hawaii. While Hawaii does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Hawaii is one of a few states that lists oral health services as eligible for reimbursement when performed via telehealth.

Payment Parity

Hawaii has parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under both private insurance as well as Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Idaho

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Idaho.

Expanded Functions

• Recent 2018 legislative changes amended existing law regarding dental hygienists with an Extended Access Endorsement to allow expansion of practice settings and procedures.
• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every dental hygienist utilizing an Extended Access Permit to have instant communication with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

Idaho Medicaid will only reimburse for synchronous telehealth services.

Payment Parity

There is no record of telehealth/telemedicine parity laws in Idaho.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Illinois

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in Illinois.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Public Health Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• In specific situations, a Dental Hygienist may provide limited services to a patient of record if the patient is unable to travel to the dental office because of illness, infirmity, or imprisonment. Additionally, Dental Hygienists may provide preventive services in educational settings after the patient is examined by a dentist.

Payment Parity

Illinois does not have active parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine. However, legislation is pending.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Indiana

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Indiana. Indiana law defines telemedicine but does not provide a distinct definition for teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Effective July 1, 2018, dental hygienists with an access practice agreement may provide services without the onsite presence of a dentist in settings other than the dental office.
• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for the supervising dentist to be readily available for emergency communication and consultation.
• Dental assistants may help provide teledentistry services when working under the supervision of an access practice hygienist.
• Dental hygienists do not need supervision when providing screenings and referrals in a public health setting.

Medicaid

Medicaid will reimburse for limited live/interactive services only due to state’s definition of telemedicine.

Payment Parity

Since 2015, Indiana has parity laws in place that allow telemedicine coverage under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Iowa

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Iowa.

Expanded Functions

• All dental hygienists can provide screenings, assessments, and educational services without the authorization or onsite presence of a dentist.
• Registered dental assistants working under general supervision can provide limited services to patients without the onsite presence of a dentist.
• Public Health Supervision allows qualified dental hygienists and dental assistants to provide services in offsite locations and without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is provided for synchronous telehealth services, though legislation is pending to include asynchronous and remote patient monitoring.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to cover health care services via telehealth if those services are appropriate and follow applicable laws and regulations.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Kansas

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Kansas. While Kansas does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists that have Extended Care Permits and under General Supervision practicing in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Medicaid must cover medically necessary services and also includes store-and-forward technology as a part of the telemedicine definition.

Payment Parity

Kansas currently has telemedicine parity laws in place.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Kentucky

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Kentucky.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry provides easy access to the practice when dental hygienists provide services under general supervision without the physical presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Dentists are specified as eligible telehealth providers for Medicaid.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Louisiana

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Louisiana. While Louisiana does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth,it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations under general supervision to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Louisiana has parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under both Medicaid and private insurance.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Maine

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in Maine

Expanded Functions

• Dental Hygienists are able to practice independently and without supervision of a dentist. Teledentistry helps close the referral loop between independent hygienists and a referred dentist.
• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Public Health Dental Hygienist to have a relationship with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Dental Assistants, Certified Dental Assistants, and Expanded Function Dental Assistants are permitted to complete limited services to patients without the onsite supervision of a dentist.

Medicaid

All health plans in the state to cover telemedicine, including synchronous and asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimburse-ment rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Maryland

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Maryland. While Maryland does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect dental hygienists who practice in off-site locations under general supervision to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Medicaid reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services in addition to limited coverage for store-and-forward services.

Payment Parity

Maryland currently has parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine both under Medicaid and private insurance.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Massachusetts

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Massachusetts. Though Massachusetts does define telemedicine, it does not have a distinct definition for teledentistry. The definition of telemedicine includes synchronous services only.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the need for Public Health Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to have instant access to a dentist.
• Massachusetts has introduced a hygiene-based dental therapy model in the state.
• The dental practice act authorizes Public Health Dental Hygienists to be directly reimbursed by Medicaid.
• Certain qualified dental assistants are able to provide radiographs, polishing, and intraoral photos under general supervision.

Medicaid

Massachusetts makes no reference to reimbursement of telemedicine services within Medicaid policies.

Payment Parity

Massachusetts doesn’t explicitly have payment parity, though it does state that private payer coverage shall be consistent with coverage for health care services provided through in-person consultation.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Michigan

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Michigan. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every PA161 Dental Hygienist to communicate easily and efficiently with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

Reimbursement for telehealth that uses interactive, live video.  Asynchronous or store-and-forward is currently not included in Michigan’s policy.

Payment Parity

Michigan does have parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Minnesota

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Minnesota. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Therapist and Collaborative Practice Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Both dental hygienists and dental assistants can provide services in the dental office without the onsite supervision of a dentist.
• Dental therapists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants can all provide services in off-site, non-traditional locations as long as they have a written collaborative agreement in place with a dentist. Their patients do not have to be physically evaluated by the collaborating dentist and do not become the dentists’ patient of record.

Medicaid

Reimburses for live video and store and forward services and also specifies dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, and advanced dental therapists as eligible providers.

Payment Parity

Minnesota does have parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under private payers and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Mississippi

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Mississippi. While Mississippi defines telehealth, it does not have a definition for teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Dental hygienists employed by the State Board of Health or public school boards may provide oral health instruction and screening under general supervision.
• Pending legislation discusses allowing qualified dental hygienists to provide services under general supervision and separate pending legislation introduces a dental therapist clinical model in the state.

Medicaid

Reimbursement for live video consultations and asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same extent as in-person encounters.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Missouri

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Missouri. While Mississippi defines telehealth, it does not have a definition for teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• A dental hygienist may provide oral hygiene instructions, conduct oral screenings, and apply fluoride without a dentist present and can refer to a dentist for diagnosis and treatment.
• Dental hygienists with 3 years of experience may be directly reimbursed for prophylaxis, sealants, and fluoride and may provide these services without supervision of a dentist. These services are limited to Medicaid-eligible children in public health settings.

Medicaid

Dentists, oral surgeons, and dental hygienists are eligible providers for live video but certain restrictions on providers and reimbursement rates apply to asynchronous telehealth.

Payment Parity

Parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Montana

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Montana. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every dental hygienist with a Limited Access Permit to have instant communication with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

Coverage of telemedicine services under Medicaid.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person. Dentists and dental hygienists are specified as eligible providers under a law that states private payers are required to provide coverage for teledentistry services delivered through live video.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Nebraska

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Nebraska. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Dental hygienists in Nebraska can receive direct reimbursement through Medicaid. Qualified dental hygienists may also place interim therapeutic restorations in addition to writing prescriptions for mouth rinses and fluoride products.
• Currently, dental assistants may provide limited services under general supervision and without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Nebraska Medicaid reimburses for live video and limited store-and-forward services.

Payment Parity

Nebraska does have telemedicine parity laws in effect.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Nevada

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Nevada. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Hygienist to have instant communication with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Public Health Dental Hygienists can provide services without the authorization or supervision of a dentist and can even own a dental program.
• Dental Hygienists and Public Health Dental Hygienists can supervise Dental Assistants.
• Dental Assistants, with authorization from a dentist, are able to provide services without the onsite presence of a dentist—sometimes even completing services prior to the patient seeing the dentist.

Medicaid

Medicaid reimbursement is available for services delivered via asynchronous telehealth.

Payment Parity

Live video reimbursement is available for private payer dental plans.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in New Hampshire

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in New Hampshire. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect dental hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Currently, dental assistants may provide limited services under general supervision and without the onsite presence of a dentist. Dental assistants may also provide services under Public Health Supervision to assist a Certified Public Health Dental Hygienist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Pariy

New Hampshire has parity laws in place for coverage of telemedicine under private insurance and Medicaid. Reimbursement rates are equivalent to in-person rates.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in New Jersey

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in New Jersey. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Under General Supervision, Dental Hygienists may provide care in schools, institutions, and other facilities as long as the patient has been examined by the supervising dentist within the preceding year.

Medicaid

Medicaid reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services; asynchronous coverage is not explicitly mentioned but could be covered within the definition of telemedicine.

Payment Parity

In 2017, New Jersey passed legislation requiring private insurers and Medicaid to reimburse telemedicine services at the same rate as in-person services.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in New Mexico

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in New Mexico While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry. However, the dental practice act defines teledentistry as “…a dentist’s use of health information technology in real time to provide limited diagnostic treatment planning services in cooperation with another dentist, a dental hygienist, a community health coordinator or a student enrolled in a program of study to become a dental assistant, dental hygienist or dentist.”

Expanded Functions

• No supervision is required for any dental hygienist to apply topical fluorides and remineralization agents in schools, public and community medical facilities, and other limited settings.
• After meeting a minimal hour requirement and without general supervision, dental hygienists can practice in any setting with a collaborative agreement and can own or manage a collaborative dental hygiene practice.

Medicaid

Coverage of both synchronous and asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

Private payers and New Mexico Medicaid are required to provide coverage for services equivalent to in-person coverage.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in New York

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in New York.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Medicaid coverage for live video and limited coverage for asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

New York currently has various telemedicine legislation introduced relating to reimbursement rates as well as the promotion, provision, and accessibility of services. New York is one of few states that list dentists as Eligible Healthcare Providers and dental practices as Originating Sites for telemedicine services.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in North Carolina

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in North Carolina. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help Public Health Dental Hygienists or or limited supervision dental hygienists who practice in off-site locations instantly connect with a supervising dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

North Carolina does not have a parity law in place.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in North Dakota

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in North Dakota. No specific definition of telemedicine or teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants acting under general supervision can provide limited services without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services only for Medicaid.

Payment Parity

North Dakota currently has parity laws in place for private payers.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Ohio

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Ohio.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Dental therapy legislation has been introduced.
• Dentists and dental hygienists utilizing an Oral Health Supervision Permit may use teledentistry to perform the required clinical evaluation prior to the completion of hygiene services.
• Currently, qualified dental assistants may provide limited services without the onsite presence of a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Ohio does not have telemedicine parity laws in effect.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Oklahoma

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Oklahoma. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect general supervision and Offsite Exception Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Oklahoma has parity laws in place that require telemedicine reimbursement for private payers and Medicaid. The OK Department of Health has begun to develop a statewide telemedicine network.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Oregon

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Oregon. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Therapist and Expanded Practice Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Oral health screenings may be performed by dental assistants under general supervision and with a written training and screening protocol adopted by Oregon Board of Dentistry.

Medicaid

The state authorizes reimbursement for telehealth that uses live, interactive video.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person. Dental care providers are specified as an authorized telehealth provider by the Oregon Board of Dentistry.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Pennsylvania

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Pennsylvania. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Certified Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioners are able to provide services in public health locations without the prior authorization of a dentist.
• All dental hygienists are permitted to work at off-site locations under general supervision as long as a dentist has examined the patient in the last year.

Medicaid

Limited reimbursement is allowed for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Medicaid is required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Rhode Island

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Rhode Island. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist. Dental hygienists may receive direct reimbursement from third party payers.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for some live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Parity laws in place that allow coverage of telemedicine under private insurance and Medicaid.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in South Carolina

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in South Carolina. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Dental hygienists can work under general supervision at various locations outside of the dental practice such as hospitals, schools, care facilities, and more.
• Without prior authorization by a dentist, a dental hygienist can perform screenings, oral hygiene instruction, and nutritional counseling.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid for some live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

South Carolina does not have telemedicine parity laws in effect.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in South Dakota

Regulations

Limited teledentistry regulations exist in South Dakota. Though the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, the only definition of “teledentistry” is defined within the dental statutes.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for Dental Hygienists with collaborative agreements who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Dental assistants can be supervised by a dental hygienist and are therefore able to help provide efficiency during teledentistry services.

Medicaid

Telemedicine reimbursement is allowed for live video only.

Payment Parity

Medicaid will currently reimburse limited services equivalent to in-person rates. However, parity legislation has been proposed to allow for equivalent reimbursement from Medicaid as well as private payers.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Tennessee

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Tennessee. Tennessee is one of few states that specifically defines “teledentistry” in addition to “telehealth/telemedicine.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations, under general supervision, to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.

Medicaid

Tennessee is also one of few states to specify teledentistry as a covered specialty by both Medicaid and private payers.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Texas

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Texas. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry allows Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations and under general supervision to provide patients with an evaluation by a dentist.
• Dental assistants are able to provide limited services under general supervision such as the making of radiographs and interim treatment of minor emergencies.

Medicaid

Synchronous and asynchronous telehealth services are reimbursable.

Payment Parity

Private payers and Medicaid are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Utah

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Utah.

Expanded Functions

• Under general supervision, all dental hygienists in Utah can treat patients of record without the onsite presence of a supervising dentist. With just a click of a button, teledentistry can help the dentist remain “close by” and provide remote consultation as necessary.
• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Public Health Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid:

Payment Parity:

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Vermont

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Vermont. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, and Dental Assistants who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an instant connection with a dentist.
• Dental hygienists in Vermont may be directly reimbursed and write prescriptions.
• Dental therapy legislation has been passed.
• Currently, dental therapists working with a collaborative agreement may directly supervise up to two dental hygienists and/or dental assistants.

Medicaid

Reimbursement is allowed by Medicaid and private payers for live video telemedicine services only.

Payment Parity

Had telemedicine parity laws in place that allow coverage of under private insurance and Medicaid. The parity allows, but doesn’t require private payer reimbursement for some store-and-forward.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Virginia

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Virginia.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for Dental Hygienists who practice under remote supervision in off-site locations to have easy access to a supervising dentist.
• Dental Assistants are able work without the onsite presence of a dentist if they are supervised by a dental hygienist.

Medicaid

Reimbursement for synchronous services only.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Washington

Regulations

Extensive teledentistry regulations exist in Washington.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist who practices at an off-site location to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• There are many off˜-site locations that Dental Hygienists can practice without the onsite supervision of a dentist, including homes, schools, medical facilities, community clinics, group homes, nursing homes, and more.

Medicaid

Washington is one of few states to specifically mention dental offices as Eligible Originating Sites for Medicaid.

Payment Parity

Private payers are required to provide coverage for telemedicine in the same manner, and at the same reimbursement rate, as other services provided in person.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Washington D.C.

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in the District of Columbia. While Washington DC does have a definition for telemedicine/telehealth, it does not define “teledentistry”.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can help connect Dental Hygienists who practice in off-site locations to provide patients with an examination by a dentist.
• Dental hygienists working under general supervision are permitted to obtain initial authorization from a dentist using a communications device.

Medicaid

Reimbursement for live video, store and forward, and remote patient monitoring.

Payment Parity

Washington DC currently has a telemedicine parity law in effect.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in West Virginia

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in West Virginia.While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for every Public Health Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

West Virginia Medicaid reimburses for real time/synchronous communications—however, oral health professionals are not yet listed as specified providers.

Payment Parity

West Virginia does not have parity laws in place.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Wisconsin

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Wisconsin. While the state does define telemedicine/telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry.

Expanded Functions

• A Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin can practice as an employee or independent contractor in limited settings other than a dental office, without the authorization and presence of a licensed dentist.
• Teledentistry can connect dental hygienists working in alternative settings to a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.

Medicaid

Specifies limited coverage for synchronous telehealth services and does not reimburse for asynchronous services.

Payment Parity

Wisconsin does not currently have a telemedicine parity law in place.

Quick Facts: Teledentistry in Wyoming

Regulations

No teledentistry regulations exist in Wyoming. While the state does define telehealth, it does not specifically define teledentistry. As of 2017, the state passed legislation to allow professional boards to have the power to adopt telehealth/telemedicine definitions and standards applicable to their regulated profession.

Expanded Functions

• Teledentistry can satisfy the requirements for the Public Health Dental Hygienist to have a written plan with a dentist for the provision of clinical resources and referrals in situations which are beyond their capabilities.
• Under general supervision, both dental assistants and dental hygienists can provide limited services without the onsite presence of the dentist.

Medicaid

Only live video reimbursement is provided for Medicaid.

Payment Parity

Wyoming does not have parity laws in place.

Guide to Terms