By Dr Farideh Farshad – GDC Number: 76723
Many dental problems are easier to manage when they’re discovered early. That’s one reason regular dental examinations and diagnostic imaging form such an important part of preventative dentistry.
Now, developments in artificial intelligence could provide dentists with another tool to help identify potential problems at an earlier stage.
AI is already being researched and introduced across different areas of dentistry, with one of the most promising applications involving the analysis of dental X-rays.
How Is AI Being Used in Dentistry?
Artificial intelligence systems can be trained using large collections of dental images.
When presented with an X-ray, the software can analyse patterns within the image and highlight areas that could require closer examination by the dentist.
One area receiving considerable attention is dental caries — better known as tooth decay.
Decay isn’t always immediately obvious. It can develop between teeth and in other areas that are difficult to assess visually, which is one reason dentists sometimes recommend dental X-rays as part of an examination.
Research suggests that AI has the potential to support dentists when identifying these areas, particularly when reviewing radiographic images.
However, AI doesn’t make the final diagnosis.
Why Finding Tooth Decay Earlier Can Matter
Tooth decay is progressive.
In its earliest stages, changes to the tooth may be relatively small. Depending on how advanced the decay is, preventative measures or simpler treatment may sometimes be possible.
As decay progresses, however, it can move further into the tooth.
This can eventually result in:
- sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods
- pain when biting
- toothache
- damage to the structure of the tooth
- infection or an abscess
More advanced problems may consequently require more extensive treatment.
Regular appointments with a dentist in Sheldon can therefore be valuable even when you’re not experiencing pain. Dental examinations are not simply about responding to existing symptoms; they’re also an opportunity to identify potential problems before you become aware of them.
Could AI Make Dental X-Rays More Useful?
Dentists are already trained to interpret dental X-rays, so AI isn’t designed to replace their expertise.
Instead, it may act almost like a second pair of eyes.
For example, software could highlight an area of an X-ray that appears unusual. The dentist can then assess this alongside what they see during the examination and any symptoms reported by the patient.
This additional information could potentially improve consistency and help clinicians identify areas that deserve closer attention.
It’s important, however, not to overstate what AI can currently do. Research published in 2026 has found promising results for AI-assisted caries detection, but clinical validation is still developing and current evidence doesn’t support using AI independently of a dental professional.
The Dentist Still Makes the Clinical Decision
Dental diagnosis involves considerably more than looking at an image.
A dentist may consider:
- what they can see during the examination
- dental X-rays
- pain or sensitivity
- previous dental treatment
- changes since earlier appointments
- the patient’s wider dental history
- additional clinical tests where appropriate
AI can potentially provide more information, but understanding what that information means for an individual patient requires professional clinical judgement.
Technology and Preventative Dentistry
AI is only one part of a much wider move towards digital dentistry.
Modern practices increasingly have access to technologies such as digital X-rays, intraoral scanning, 3D imaging and digital treatment planning.
The most important benefit isn’t the technology itself. It’s how these tools can help dentists diagnose, explain and manage dental conditions.
For people looking for dental care in Sheldon, regular examinations remain one of the simplest ways to protect long-term oral health.
Even as AI becomes more advanced, the fundamentals aren’t changing: good oral hygiene, routine dental care and identifying problems early can all help reduce the likelihood of a minor dental issue becoming something more serious.
AI may simply give dentists another useful tool to help achieve that goal.
DDS Sweden
Dr Farideh Farshad
Dr Farideh Farshad trained as a dentist at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, renowned globally not only for its dental programme but also its clinical excellence and research.
Farideh has completed numerous post graduate courses in; aesthetic dentistry, cosmetic bonding, dental implantology, Six Month Smile aligners & clear braces and Invisalign as well as advanced training in facial aesthetics.
She has special interest in cosmetic bonding, rehabilitation of complex restorative cases and smile makeovers which require careful planning, attention to details. She is a keen advocate for continuous learning and personal development. She is involved with College in Birmingham for training and apprenticeship of the next generation of dental nurses.
Dr Farshad is currently in the process of obtaining her Postgraduate Diploma in Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry.
She enjoys the day to day general dentistry and looking after her loyal patients. In her free time, Farideh enjoys sculpturing, reading, pilates, yoga, cycling and spending time with family and friends. Farideh is fluent in English, Swedish and Persian.
