New Dental Specialty Gains Recognition: Dental Anesthesiology

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In March, the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards recognized dental anesthesiology as a dental specialty. Following approval by the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards, the next step will be for dental anesthesiology to establish a national board to certify diplomats.
 
It is a rare occurrence for a new dental specialty to gain recognition, and dental anesthesiology is an important one when it comes to patient safety and professional liability risks for dental healthcare professionals.
Dental specialties are recognized by the Commission in areas where advanced knowledge and skills are deemed essential to the maintenance or restoration of oral health. Specialties are recognized in the interest of protecting the public, nurturing the art and science of dentistry, and improving quality of care.
 
Dental anesthesiology becomes the 10^th officially recognized dental specialty, along with: endodontics; orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics; prosthodontics; pediatric dentistry; periodontics; oral and maxillofacial pathology; oral and maxillofacial radiology; oral and maxillofacial surgery; and dental public health.
 
Click here to read the full press release from the American Dental Association, or visit the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists or the American Dental Board of Anesthesiology for more information about dental anesthesiology.