Georgia has joined a growing list of states that require an in-person examination before the start of orthodontic treatment, becoming the sixth state to adopt this patient safety measure. Backed by continued AAO Advocacy success through AAO member grassroots engagement, similar requirements are already in place in Nevada (2023), Florida (2024), Illinois (2024), Utah (2025), and West Virginia (2025).

The AAO partnered with the Georgia Association of Orthodontists and the Georgia Dental Association to support House Bill 567, legislation that would regulate the use of teledentistry by licensed dentists in the state.  HB567 is a result of a multi-year collaboration with the Georgia Dental Association to ensure the teledentistry legislation would be in the best interest of patient health and safety.

Specifically, HB567 prohibits the use of teledentistry to provide orthodontic services without an in-person clinical examination.  Additionally, the measure would authorize licensed dentists to provide dental services through teledentistry only if they:

  • Have a physical office for the provision of services in the state; and
  • Have established a referral relationship with a referred dentist that practices dentistry and treats patients in a physical location in the state.

Bill Signed into Law May 9; to Go into Effect January 1, 2026
The Georgia House of Representatives voted to support the bill’s passage by a vote of 174 to 2. It was then sent to the Senate where it passed, 52-1. Governor Brian Kemp signed the bill into law on Friday, May 9 and it will go into effect on January 1, 2026.  The AAO will continue to remain engaged with the rulemaking and implementation of this law.

This bill is good for the state of Georgia and for patient health and safety. You can read more about this milestone legislation in the Georgia Dental Association’s press release.

This patient health and safety success is a result of the combined efforts of AAO Advocacy and AAO member grassroots engagement, with thanks to all members in Georgia who engaged in grassroots actions to support the bill through the legislative process, including leadership from Dr. Robert Moss and Dr. Greg Goggans (who serves on the Georgia Board of Dentistry).

Financial support from the AAO Component Legal Support Fund was also key as was the AAO’s work in partnership with the Georgia Association of Orthodontists and the Georgia Dental Association, leading in Atlanta.

Special thanks to Lead Sponsors of the bill, Representatives Lee Hawkins (dentist), Katie Dempsey, James Hatchett, Debbie Buckner, Darlene Taylor and Senator Shawn Still.

Why these state advocacy efforts matter nationally: State lawmakers often look closely at laws in other states when deciding on legislation or policy matters in their own state. The progress made in Georgia can have a positive influence on states considering this topic across the country.

Interested in helping us advocate for similar legislation in your state? Get involved with the National Advocacy Network.

As the AAO focuses on advancing our policy priorities in Washington, D.C. and throughout the states, please help support AAO Advocacy priorities now by making your gift celebrating 125 years of AAO in 2025 before May 31. It only takes a few minutes to complete your contribution now at AAOPAC.org, using your e-mail address associated with your AAO membership.

Our AAOPAC Pillars of Giving are working and the AAO’s bipartisan advocacy influence continues to grow through member grassroots engagement. Your grassroots voice and AAOPAC support make all the difference!