Depending on the dentist surveyed, the use of injectables in the dental office is either not a part of general dentistry, a smart economic move, or something dentists can do very well.
To dentists who support offering injectables as part of their dental marketing, they see it merely as a natural extension of the cosmetic treatments that they already provide. To dentists who dislike the idea, injectables are just an invitation to a malpractice lawsuit.
One thing is for sure: Injectables have become one of the most popular cosmetic medical procedures in the United States. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, such as injectables, has jumped 228% since 1997.
Who will fill the demand?
The Wealthy Dentist conducted a survey asking dentists if they have started administering injectable treatments such as BOTOX® and Dermal fillers for cosmetic reasons. 85% of the dentists surveyed responded, “No!” for a variety of reasons.
Here is what they had to say –
Not a part of dentistry…
“These procedures should not be done by a dentist.” (Indiana dentist)
“They’re cheesy and unprofessional!” (California prosthodontist)
“They’re not dental procedures. I don’t care if some dentists want to do them. I know one who does them and he says women can get their husbands to pay these bills from the dentist, but would be more scrutinizing about bills from a plastic surgeon.” (Illinois dentist)
“It’s not part of dentistry.” (California dentist)
A smart economic move …
“I think I will get myself trained to be able to expand my cosmetic dentistry packages.” (General dentist)
“Patients pay up front for a quick procedure with no insurance paperwork. What’s not to like?” (Florida dentist)
“A great way to see patients several times a year since these patients need regular touch-ups. It can be added to a treatment package with routine dental cleanings.” (Arizona dentist)
Something dentists can do very well…
“Of course! This is something we as dentists could do very well. However, in California the oral surgeons seem to have cornered the market, so to speak…keeping the generalists out.” (California dentist)
“Dentists give more injections than any other healthcare professional, so why not?” (Nebraska dentist)
“Who’s more qualified than a dentist that is already injecting patients needing fillings, or more extensive work every single day?” (West Virginia dentist)
Just an invitation to a malpractice lawsuit …
“I don’t believe extra oral injectables are within the scope of my dental license. I believe it verges on malpractice.” (Nevada dentist)
“The liability is too high; I’d rather leave it to MD’s with higher coverage.” (Texas dentist)
“I’m not sure about the complications with state and the malpractice issues with injectables.” (California orthodontist)
What are your thoughts on dentists offering injectables?
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