Senator Todd Pillion introduced SB 1539, which would allow dentists to possess and administer botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic purposes. The bill had its first hearing in a Senate subcommittee on January 27 and VDA President Dr. Cindy Southern spoke in support of the bill during that meeting. It passed out of the subcommittee, full committee and now has passed unanimously through the Senate.  Today it crosses over the House of Delegates and will be reviewed by the House Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee within the next several days.

Dentists may already administer Botox (botulism toxin) in Virginia as part of a dental treatment. It is routinely used by dentists in treating conditions including sleep apnea, bruxism, tension headaches, and excess salivary flow.  

Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and other medical professionals in Virginia are allowed to undergo appropriate specialized training to administer Botox for cosmetic purposes. This bill would allow dentists to undergo equivalent training.