During the past year, the AAO and the South Carolina Association of Orthodontists (SCAO) led an effort with the South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA) to focus on patient health and safety through a teledentistry bill ( S.453) introduced and sponsored by South Carolina Senator Danny Verdin (Chair of the Senate Medical Affairs Committee).
S.453 requires that a licensed dental professional conduct an in-person examination and review of current radiographic records before initiating any orthodontic treatment. This effort builds upon the foundation of the Telehealth and Telemedicine Modernization Act (H.4159) which became South Carolina law in March 2024.
The South Carolina Legislature was in session January 14 – May 28, 2025. During that time, it proved challenging to have S.453 added to the Senate calendar for a vote before the session deadline. However, in South Carolina, legislation introduced in an odd-numbered year may carry over to even-numbered year from its current status in the legislative process. This means that S.453, the teledentistry bill, is currently “live” and eligible to advance through the South Carolina legislative process now and into the spring.
Bill Approved by Senate Medical Affairs Subcommittee to Advance to Full Committee
South Carolina, like many states, holds committee meetings between legislative sessions. On September 11, the Senate Medical Affairs Subcommittee held a fall interim hearing on S.453.
AAO member and AAO National Advocacy Network South Carolina Component Advocacy Liaison Dr. Mark McInnis testified at the hearing, offering a clinical perspective on why in-person exams are critical for patient health and safety. Dr. McInnis’ testimony along with grassroots leadership from other AAO members, including Dr. Eric Nease (SAO President), Dr. Edward Davis (AAOPAC Chair), and Dr. Elizabeth Eakes (South Carolina AAOPAC Captain) helped secure this initial positive outcome in the South Carolina legislative process: The bill was reported favorably out of the subcommittee the same day.
News Broadcast Highlights Dr. McInnis’ Testimony
News19 WLTX in Columbia featured the AAO/SCAO-supported legislation and the hearing on its Friday, September 11 afternoon broadcast. The segment highlighted Dr. McInnis’ testimony in committee explaining the importance of an in-person examination.
There is much more work to be done. The legislation is now expected to be considered by the full Senate Medical Affairs Committee in January when the South Carolina 2026 legislative session commences. We are grateful for all AAO/SCAO members in South Carolina who engaged over the last year by taking grassroots action to support advancement of this important teledentistry legislation for patient health and safety.
These efforts have national significance. Since 2023, eight states have enacted similar laws aimed at protecting patient health and safety. Progress in South Carolina could help inspire additional states to follow suit. State lawmakers frequently look to their counterparts in other states when shaping policy. The fact that neighboring states like Georgia and Florida have already passed AAO-supported teledentistry legislation with an in-person examination requirement helps strengthen the case for similar action in South Carolina.
If you are interested in advancing similar protections in your state, get involved with the AAO National Advocacy Network. And as the AAO continues advancing policy priorities in Washington, D.C. and across the states, consider supporting advocacy efforts by making a contribution in honor of AAO’s 125th anniversary at AAOPAC.org (using the email address associated with your AAO membership). Your voice and grassroots engagement make a difference!
