CA SB1148

Authorizes Medi-Cal providers to apply silver diamine fluoride to treat active, nonsymptomatic carious lesions in teeth without removing sound tooth structure, provided the beneficiary receives consultation and written informed consent.

Requires silver diamine fluoride treatment to be part of a comprehensive treatment plan and limits the benefit to children age 6 and under, persons with disabilities or conditions where nonrestorative treatment is optimal, and adults in skilled nursing or intermediate care facilities.

Allows registered dental hygienists in alternative practice to bill for this service when requirements are met.

Permits the department to implement provisions through all-county letters and provider bulletins without formal regulatory action.

Implementation is contingent on obtaining federal approvals and federal matching funds, with the section becoming operative January 1, 2019.