Authors: A. F. Luai, J. W. Cho, B. A. M. Sabri, N. A. M. Radzi
Journal Reference (Harvard):
Luai, A.F., Cho, J.W., Sabri, B.A.M. and Radzi, N.A.M. (2025) ‘AI and immersive technology in dentistry’, British Dental Journal, 239(7), p. 442. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-025-9266-2
Background
Recent discussions surrounding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies in dentistry have highlighted both their transformative potential and the pressing need for robust ethical and governance frameworks. The article expands on prior debates concerning the “liability paradox” — the challenge of assigning responsibility when clinicians and AI systems disagree — and argues for proactive regulation to ensure these technologies enhance, rather than undermine, dental practice and education.
AI applications in dentistry can assist with diagnostics, treatment planning, and predictive analytics. However, ethical issues such as patient data privacy, algorithmic bias, and accountability remain unresolved. Algorithmic bias, in particular, risks perpetuating inequities in dental care if datasets are not representative of diverse populations. Overreliance on AI may also erode clinical reasoning skills among students and practitioners, raising concerns about professional autonomy and competence.
Beyond AI, immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and the metaverse are increasingly used in dental education and patient engagement. While they offer interactive learning experiences, they also introduce new ethical challenges, including exposure to cyberbullying, harassment, and psychological harm, especially among adolescents and other vulnerable groups.
Methods
The authors undertake a critical analysis of current literature and ethical debates relating to the deployment of AI and immersive technologies in dentistry. They evaluate existing frameworks governing digital health innovations, identifying key gaps in accountability, transparency, and bias mitigation. The approach involves synthesising interdisciplinary perspectives from dental education, ethics, law, and technology to propose a model for ethical foresight and governance in dental innovation.
Results and Conclusion
The analysis reveals that current governance structures inadequately address the ethical complexities introduced by AI and immersive systems in dental contexts. The authors argue that to maintain trust and transparency, principles such as explainability, bias detection, and ethics training must be embedded in both dental curricula and institutional governance.
To mitigate risks associated with immersive technologies, the paper recommends the implementation of transparent consent procedures, robust data security safeguards, and real-time monitoring of digital interactions. Crucially, interdisciplinary collaboration between dental educators, ethicists, technologists, and policymakers is deemed essential to create comprehensive ethical frameworks grounded in transparency, accountability, equity, and patient-centred care.
By aligning technological innovation with the Hippocratic ethos of patient welfare, the profession can ensure that AI and immersive technologies strengthen — rather than erode — the ethical foundations of dentistry.
Research Summary Written By: Aneesa Aslam, University of Manchester – BDS 3