Babin Introduces ORTHO Act to Strengthen Patient Safety Standards in Teledentistry

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and a practicing dentist for more than 40 years, introduced the Oversight of Responsible Teledentistry for Healthy Outcomes (ORTHO) Act, H.R. 9829, to establish common-sense patient safety standards for orthodontic treatment provided through teledentistry.

"Teledentistry has expanded access to care for countless Americans, and when used appropriately, it can be a valuable tool. But convenience should never come at the expense of patient safety," said Congressman Babin. "As a dentist for more than four decades, I understand the importance of a thorough clinical examination before beginning significant orthodontic treatment. Patients deserve the confidence of knowing their treatment decisions are based on an in-person evaluation, appropriate diagnostic records, and sound clinical judgment, not solely on an online interaction. The ORTHO Act strikes the right balance by preserving access to teledentistry while ensuring commonsense safeguards are in place to protect patients."

"We applaud Congressman Brian Babin for his leadership in introducing the ORTHO Act and for bringing his decades of experience as a practicing dentist to this important patient safety issue," said Dr. Mike Durbin, President of the American Association of Orthodontists. "Teledentistry and artificial intelligence are transforming the delivery of health care and can expand access to care when deployed in ways that preserve patient safety and professional accountability. The ORTHO Act establishes commonsense patient safety standards that ensure orthodontic treatment begins with an in-person clinical examination, appropriate diagnostic records, and the professional judgment of a licensed health care professional. By providing a clear framework for the responsible use of teledentistry, the legislation promotes responsible innovation while helping protect patients nationwide. The American Association of Orthodontists is proud to support the ORTHO Act and looks forward to working with Congress to advance these important patient protections."

The ORTHO Act establishes baseline patient safety standards while preserving access to teledentistry by:

• Requiring an in-person dental examination before most dental treatment can be provided through teledentistry;
• Allowing exceptions for emergencies, public health programs, and initial orthodontic screenings;
• Requiring an in-person confirmation and X-ray review before orthodontic treatment begins;
• Authorizing enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general against violators; and
• Allowing patients to seek damages for willful violations.

The legislation is supported by the American Association of Orthodontists.

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