Chapter 3 – Health Care Operations

3.3.2.12 Orthodontics

• Policy

  • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) dental departments shall not initiate orthodontic procedures, (i.e., braces), or continue orthodontic treatment for patients incarcerated while in active orthodontic treatment.

• Purpose

  • To establish guidelines for managing patients incarcerated while in active orthodontic treatment.

• Procedure

  • Orthodontics is not a dental service provided by CDCR dental departments.

  • Patients may request to have orthodontic bands/brackets removed by the CDCR dental department. The CDCR shall not be held liable for changes to the patients’ dentition once the orthodontic bands/brackets are removed and shall obtain informed consent from all patients who request removal of orthodontic bands/brackets.

  • Every attempt shall be made to contact the treating orthodontist prior to removal of orthodontic bands or brackets.

  • Removal of orthodontic bands/brackets and/or arch wires shall be at the discretion of the treating dentist and does not require approval by the Dental Authorization Review Committee.

  • The CDCR shall not be held liable for the replacement of orthodontic bands that are damaged or removed in the process of providing dental procedures on banded teeth.

  • Reference the Health Care Department Operations Manual, Section 3.3.4.5(c)(3) and (4) for referral requirements.

• References

  • Health Care Department Operations Manual, Chapter 3, Article 3, Section 3.3.4.5, Dental Authorization Review Committee

• Revision History

  • Effective: 04/2006
    Revised: 11/2017, 11/2020, 02/2022