HD 2440 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act enabling registered dental hygienists to administer nitrous oxide

This bill amends a section of Massachusetts law to allow registered dental hygienists to administer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for pain relief during dental procedures. It directly affects licensed dental hygienists by expanding their scope of practice to include this specific technique. The key change adds "nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia" to the list of permitted treatments alongside local anesthesia agents. This update enables hygienists to provide a common, non-invasive sedation option directly during patient care without requiring a separate dentist's supervision for this specific service.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor