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TMPPM Will Be Updated to Clarify Dental Informed Consent and Treatment Plan Requirements for Deep Sedation or General Anesthesia

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On December 1, 2026, the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) will update the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual (TMPPM), Children’s Services Handbook, section 3.2.8, “Written Informed Consent and Standards of Care.”

To clarify informed consent and treatment plan documentation requirements for dental services provided under deep sedation or general anesthesia, the following updated language will be included in the TMPPM:

 

The written informed consent must identify the tooth and surface IDs associated with the proposed treatment, when these can be reasonably determined before treatment, and must include the disclosures otherwise required by this section and applicable law.

When a complete dental examination or diagnostic imaging cannot be reasonably performed prior to deep sedation or general anesthesia due to the client’s age, disability, medical condition, or inability to cooperate, the provider must document the clinical circumstances preventing identification of the specific teeth or surfaces before treatment. In these circumstances, written informed consent must still be obtained before treatment and must describe the anticipated evaluation, the types and scope of dental treatment that may be necessary based on examination findings, and the associated risks, benefits, and alternatives, consistent with applicable law and professional standards.

The provider must identify and document the tooth and surface IDs requiring treatment in a timely manner when they can be determined and maintain an accurate record of the treatment performed; however, this flexibility does not waive informed-consent requirements or authorize treatment beyond the scope of the consent obtained.

For more information, call the TMHP Contact Center at 800-925-9126.

Note: Texas Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) must provide all medically necessary, Medicaid-covered services to Medicaid members who are enrolled in their MCO. Administrative procedures, such as prior authorization, precertification, referrals, and claims and encounter data filing, may differ from traditional Medicaid (fee-for-service) and from MCO to MCO. Providers should contact the member’s specific MCO for details.