With discussions around AI becoming more widespread across all areas of our lives, its important that we reflect on the ways it’s being used in the dental profession, and what the potential implications of this could be for professionals and their patients.
As shared by The Dentist, the GDC has published a report examining the ways in which AI is currently being used in dentistry.
The review was conducted by Peninsula Dental School at the University of Plymouth, examining 45 international studies from 12 countries, primarily China and the US.
Its findings revealed that, within dentistry, AI is currently used in:
This highlights the potential benefits of AI, working to improve accuracy, patient outcomes, and opportunities to provide remote care. On the other hand, it highlights potential risks, particularly relating to robotics in surgery when a patient has poor bone quality.
Other challenges include increased patient anxiety caused by the presence of unfamiliar machinery, as well as high costs, increased training requirements, and decreased patient compliance.
The report demonstrates that, whilst awareness and interest in AI is increasing, its practical use within the profession at the current time remains limited.
> Since you’re here, why not read about a dental practice told “no need” for NHS care in area?
Main image credit: Unsplash
