The Connecticut State Dental Commission issued a statement announcing a public hearing to discuss whether to restrict teeth whitening procedures to be performed only by a licensed dentist. This could mean that many in the indoor tanning community could have to stop offering teeth whitening services.

Here’s what the notice had to say regarding the purpose of the hearing:

Whether teeth whiting practices and/or procedures constitute the practice of dentistry and what teeth whiting practices and/or procedures must be performed only by a licensed dentist or persons legally authorized to work under the supervision of a licensed dentist. The declaratory ruling proceeding will also address licensed dentist or persons legally authorized to work under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

If you wish to participate in the hearing you must petition the Commission by October 15, 2010. Participants will also have to submit their testimony by November 15, 2010.

All requests must be submitted in writing and sent to:

CT State Dental Commission
Department of Public Health
410 Capitol Avenue
MS#13PHO, P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134-0308