Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have published a review commissioned by the General Dental Council (GDC), examining how artificial intelligence is transforming dental education and what’s needed to ensure its safe and responsible use.
The review found that AI is already being used or piloted across dental education, from student admissions and classroom learning to clinical simulation, assessment and professional development. It suggests AI offers opportunities to personalise learning, provide rapid feedback and enable students to practise clinical procedures in simulated environments.
However, the researchers also identified significant risks, including inaccurate AI-generated information, over-reliance on technology, threats to academic integrity and concerns about patient data protection.
Importantly, the report argues that the introduction of AI into dental education must be considered as a patient safety issue, rather than simply an opportunity for technological innovation.
It recommends clearer governance of AI use in teaching and assessment, improved digital literacy among students and educators, stronger data protection safeguards and continued evaluation of AI’s effect on clinical skills and patient safety.
The report was produced independently by researchers at Queen Mary’s Institute of Dentistry to inform the GDC’s approach to regulating dental education and training. Led by Professor Manu Raj Mathur along with Professor Huda Yusuf, Dr Ali Golkari and Dr Cassandra Lewis, the research team examined evidence from 75 studies, alongside interviews with regulators, education specialists and recent dental graduates.
Mathur said: “Artificial intelligence has enormous potential to support dental education, but its adoption must be guided by evidence and a clear understanding of the risks. Our review highlights the importance of ensuring that future dental professionals develop the clinical judgement, critical thinking and ethical awareness needed to use these technologies safely. Ultimately, patient safety must remain at the centre of how AI is introduced into dental education.”
The report will provide evidence to inform the GDC’s consideration of AI within its regulatory frameworks, including its Standards for Education and Safe Practitioner framework.