Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he was relaxing restrictions on certain surgeries and procedures in the state, but some dentists are struggling to interpret what care is allowed under the order, according to KXAN-TV.
Matt Roberts, DDS, chair of the Texas Dental Association Council on Legislative and Governmental Affairs, is currently only treating emergencies.
"The uncertainty is what has us members and dentists across the state wondering whether or not we can open," said Dr. Roberts, who has been practicing dentistry in Crockett, Texas, for about 40 years.
"Does this mean that we can open our practices and perform any dental procedure that we feel qualified to do? Does it mean we still need to limit ourselves to emergent care until May 8, when this order, I think, expires?" Dr. Roberts asked.
On April 21, the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners issued guidelines interpreting the governor's order. Dentists must postpone procedures that aren't life-saving or medically necessary to diagnose or correct a serious medical condition.
Mr. Abbott said he intends to update the executive order April 27.