AI in dentistry: A checklist for practitioners

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making waves in dentistry, offering exciting new ways to improve diagnostics, simplify record-keeping and enhance patient care. While AI has the potential to be a game-changer, it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Alongside its benefits come ethical, legal and clinical responsibilities that dental practitioners need to keep in mind.

Before introducing AI into your dental practice, the priority should always be patient care, data security and professional accountability. AI should support your expertise, not replace it. This checklist will help you navigate AI adoption safely and confidently.

1. Patient consent and transparency

• Inform patients if AI is being used in their care, especially for diagnosis, treatment planning, or record-keeping.
• Obtain consent for AI-assisted transcriptions or recordings.
• Clearly explain to patients how AI-generated data is used, where it is stored, and if it influences decision-making.

2. Data protection and GDPR compliance

• Ensure AI tools comply with UK GDPR and update your privacy policy accordingly.
• If patient data is stored, confirm where and by whom it is held (within practice systems or by a third-party provider).
• Have a clear data retention and deletion policy for AI-generated records.
• Implement strong cybersecurity measures, including encryption, firewalls and access controls to prevent data breaches.

3. Clinical responsibility and risk management

• Remember, AI is an assistive tool; clinical decisions and liability remain with the practitioner.
• Don’t rely solely on AI for diagnosis or treatment planning; always apply professional judgment.
• Maintain thorough documentation of all clinical decisions, ensuring AI suggestions are critically evaluated before being acted upon.

4. Accuracy and record-keeping

• If using AI for transcription or record-keeping, always review and edit notes for accuracy.
• Avoid over-reliance on AI-generated templates; ensure patient records remain individualised and clinically relevant.
• Be cautious when modifying AI-generated records – ensure edited records align with original transcripts in case of future disputes.

5. Software reliability and vendor assessment

• Evaluate AI tools for clinical accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance before adoption.
• Ensure the software provider adheres to UK data protection regulations and has robust data security.
• Choose AI systems that allow for human oversight and intervention rather than automated decision-making.
• Ensure AI tools have the appropriate regulatory approvals (CE mark / UKCA certification).

6. Ethical and legal considerations

• Ensure AI use aligns with the General Dental Council (GDC) Standards for patient care and professional conduct.
• If AI influences clinical decision-making, document how decisions were reached in case of future legal scrutiny.
• Be prepared to justify treatment decisions if challenged. AI cannot be held liable for misdiagnosis or errors.

7. Staff training and implementation

• Provide team training on AI functionality, limitations and ethical considerations.
• Establish clear practice protocols for AI use, ensuring consistency across the team.
• Regularly update knowledge on AI advancements and evolving regulations.
• Have a contingency plan in case AI systems fail.

AI can enhance dental care when used responsibly but requires careful consideration and oversight. By following this checklist, dental practitioners can integrate AI effectively while maintaining high standards of patient care, data security and professional accountability.

Please contact MDDUS to discuss a particular case or query. Email us on advice@mddus.com

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This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.