Overview
AI tools are becoming increasingly visible in everyday life, including healthcare. We are hearing more frequently from dentists that their patients are turning to AI tools to diagnose symptoms, write complaints, or make assumptions about treatment before attending a dental appointment.
As a dentist, you know that no algorithm can replicate clinical judgement built on your training and experience. What may appear convincing online often lacks the context and full understanding of an individual patient’s circumstances.
The same principle applies to the complex realities of working in a dental practice. For example, dealing with staff, interpreting contracts, and other matters. AI is a useful adjunct, but it cannot replace specialist advice tailored to dentistry as a highly regulated profession.
This page provides an overview on the safer use of AI, and the practical considerations required when it is implemented. For example, GDPR is a pressing concern, along with the risk of AI ‘hallucinations’ in the form of misleading or overly agreeable comments to your suggestions.
Dentistry is subject to extensive regulation. Decisions made within a dental practice can have far‑reaching consequences for patients, staff, and your professional standing. While AI tools and online resources offer speed and convenience, they do not offer protection if things go wrong. If advice turns out to be inaccurate, accountability does not sit with the AI provider. It rests with you as the dental professional.
