FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1271

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

C 172 L 13

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning the practice of denturism.

Sponsors: House Committee on Health Care & Wellness (originally sponsored by Representatives Jinkins, Johnson, Morrell, Green, Harris, Cody, Ryu and Tharinger).

House Committee on Health Care & Wellness

Senate Committee on Health Care

Background:

Licensed denturists are authorized to:

To be licensed, a denturist must either:

In 2012 the Department of Health (DOH) conducted a sunrise review to determine whether the scope of practice of denturists should be broadened to include:

The DOH concluded that denturists should be allowed to fabricate and fit mouth guards for teeth grinding (bruxism) or sports mouth guards if:

The DOH also concluded that:

The DOH review recommended against expanding the denturist scope of practice to include any other non-orthodontic removable oral devices because such devices may lead to denturists treating obstructive sleep apnea.

Summary:

A licensed denturist may:

Prior to being allowed to provide any of these services, a licensed denturist must provide documentation of education and training in providing the services, to be determined by rules adopted by the Board of Denturists.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

90

7

Senate

46

0

Effective:

July 1, 2014