The Maine State Board of Dental Examiners has proposed legislation that will require dentists to use a heart monitor on any patient undergoing “moderate sedation.” This would include nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and anxiolysis. The new law comes at the same time as other changes recommended by the ADA. However, it is not part of ADA recommendations. The Maine Academy of General Dentistry does not back the law.
Required heart monitoring will cause dental costs to rise, and it may also discourage fearful patients from visiting the dentist. Furthermore, there is talk that the regulation will discourage dentists from catering to fearful patients. The Maine Dental Board is open to hearing public opinion on the matter. A vote will take place Friday, September 12th.
SOURCE: http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1545283/dental_board_to_weigh_heart_monitor_rule/