Substitute House Bill No. 5399 seeks to modernize the regulations governing dental assistants and expanded function dental assistants in Connecticut. The bill introduces new definitions for "direct supervision" and "indirect supervision," clarifying the responsibilities of licensed dentists. It establishes new requirements for expanded function dental assistants, including maintaining certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, displaying this certification at their workplace, and carrying professional liability insurance. Additionally, the bill allows dentists to delegate certain procedures to dental assistants while requiring the dentist to remain on-site during specific tasks, although it removes the necessity for dentists to be present when dental x-rays are taken. Significant deletions include the simplification of terminology from "assistants" to "assistant" and the introduction of proof of successful completion of infection control examinations for dental assistants before they can be delegated procedures.

Moreover, the bill permits licensed dentists to administer cosmetic injections, such as botulinum toxin and dermal fillers, effective October 1, 2026, which expands their scope of practice beyond traditional dental procedures. It also revises continuing education requirements for dental license renewal, increasing the mandatory topics from ten to twelve, with new topics including care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and identifying victims of human trafficking. The bill repeals certain existing provisions to reflect these updates, ensuring that dental professionals are well-trained and regulated. Most provisions of the bill will take effect on October 1, 2026, while the changes to continuing education requirements will be effective from July 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the professionalism and accountability of dental assistants while ensuring patient safety in dental care settings, with no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-112a
PH Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-112a
File No. 115: 20-112a