GDC publishes review of research into AI and dental service provision

The General Dental Council (GDC) has published a comprehensive review exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) is currently being used in dental services and the potential implications for patients, professionals, and the wider sector. Conducted by Peninsula Dental School at the University of Plymouth, the review analysed 45 international studies published since 2020, with most originating from China and the United States. Notably, no UK-based studies were included.

The research identified three primary categories of AI application in dentistry: robotics, deep learning, and supervised machine learning. Robotics is most commonly used in implant surgery, with systems like the Yomi robot assisting in precision placement. Deep learning has been applied to caries detection and treatment, often involving patients submitting intraoral photographs via smartphone apps for AI analysis. Supervised machine learning has shown promise in paediatric dentistry, particularly in predicting and identifying childhood caries.

While the review highlights the potential benefits of AI—including improved diagnostic accuracy, enhanced patient outcomes, and expanded access to remote care—it also raises concerns. Risks associated with robotic surgery in patients with poor bone quality, increased patient anxiety due to machinery presence, high implementation costs, training demands, and compliance challenges were all noted. Additionally, the review found that real-world adoption of AI in dental services remains limited.

Significant gaps in evidence were identified, particularly regarding best practice guidelines, large-scale trials, UK-specific applications, ethical considerations, data protection, and the impact of AI on equality, diversity, and inclusion. The GDC has called for further research focused on the UK context to better understand how AI can be safely and effectively integrated into dental care within a regulated environment.

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