Can a Dental Hygienist Give Botox Injections?

Question

I have been a California RDH for 6 years and I am considering a change of career due to some burnout!  I would like to know, if I were to get my esthetician's license would I be able to perform Botox treatments under a physicians supervision?  I have my LA license and have obviously had extensive head and neck anatomy classes.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The laws on who can inject Botox will vary from state to state, but in Florida, only Physicians, NP's or PA's are licensed to inject.  It makes sense that someone with extensive training in facial anatomy and facial procedures inject Botox; results do vary with technique and expertise.  I would recommend seeing a Facial Plastic surgeon, Dermatologist, or Plastic Surgeon for any injectable procedure.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox should only be injected by a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist.  Botox injections might appear easy, but it is the long years of study and intimate knowledge of anatomy that set physicians apart.  I think estheticians provide a crucial role in complimenting plastic surgery, but they should not be practicing it.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

We were a bit confused because you said you were a California RDH, but that you had an "LA" license.  Does this mean Louisiana esthetician's license?
Because every state has it's own set of laws we will not comment on anywhere but California. In California, the only persons allowed to inject Botox are medical professionals including: Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Physician (including Doctor of Osteopathy). An esthetician or dental hygienist would not be allowed to inject Botox regardless of training.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

Most states are moving towards only allowing ARNPs (nurse practioners), RNs, and PAs to perform cosmetic injections.  Also the supervision requirements are getting more strict and in many states require the physician to be on site.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I personally do not think that anyone but a physician should be injecting botox.  I am not sure what the state requirements are for you but in NY I believe it is only a physician, PA or registered nurse - both of these have to be under direct physician supervision.

Can a Dental Hygienist Give Botox Injections?

Answers (9)

Answer: Laws vary state by state

Answer: Laws vary state by state

Answer: Botox injections

Answer: Botox injections

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Everything you need to know about Botox

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Can a Dental Hygienist Give Botox Injections?

Answers (9)

Answer: Laws vary state by state

Answer: Laws vary state by state

Answer: Botox injections

Answer: Botox injections

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.