Georgia law lets some dental visits happen online through teledentistry

Some dental visits in Georgia can now happen entirely online. 13WMAZ reports a new state law allows licensed dentists to diagnose certain conditions, manage treatment plans and prescribe medications through video appointments, eliminating the need for an in-office visit in many cases.

House Bill 567, which took effect Jan. 1, expands the use of teledentistry statewide, with a focus on improving access in rural communities. More than 20 Georgia counties in Georgia do not have a practicing dentist.

“We’ve got 21 counties in Georgia that don’t have a dentist,” said Dr. Amber Lawson, immediate past president of the Georgia Dental Association. “For patients in those areas, this gives them a way to figure out what needs to be done and whether they need to seek emergency care.”

Through a video appointment, a Georgia-licensed dentist can evaluate symptoms such as pain or swelling and, when appropriate, prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications. Opioids are not permitted under the law.

Lawson said teledentistry can replace some office visits but is not appropriate for all types of care. “We don’t want anyone to think it’s a substitute for an in-person exam in every case, because it’s not,” she said. Cleanings, fillings and orthodontic treatment still require in-person care.

The law includes patient safeguards, requiring dentists to take a full medical history and obtain informed consent before providing virtual services.

House Bill 567 was sponsored by state Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome, and passed with broad bipartisan support before being signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp last year.

Georgia dental insurance plans may now cover teledentistry services for policies issued or renewed after Jan. 1.