DRAGO: HB 1286: Ending the Dental ‘X-Ray Ultimatum’ in New Hampshire
Posted to Healthcare January 13, 2026 by Mike Drago
In New Hampshire, we take “Live Free or Die” seriously. We believe informed consent and medical knowledge are critical, especially when they involve medical procedures that carry even a small amount of risk. Yet a quiet but frustrating barrier has emerged in our dental offices: the “X-ray ultimatum.”
Many dentists will refuse a simple cleaning unless the patient agrees to X-rays first.

The reason dentists give this ultimatum because they fear unintended consequences. Under current law, if a dentist performs a cleaning, skips X-rays, and misses a cavity they could be sued for malpractice or face discipline

https://nhjournal.com/drago-hb-1286-ending-the-dental-x-ray-ultimatum-in-new-hampshire/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPWghVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe64KqH6YJdC39y6nmzgn4E7U0D3C9cAYXPKG7agQzc4I9dF5UHRLi2uVyewg_aem_K6IP5ZZ8tHzbaCpkIAe8hQ