How AI Is Changing Dentistry and What It Means for Your Smile Dr. Spiker Davis

In my opinion, Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every profession, and dentistry is no exception. I recently had the opportunity to discuss this with FOX 26 medical reporter Melissa Wilson for her segment, “How AI in Dentistry Is Transforming Smiles.”

After more than 50 years in dentistry, I have witnessed some remarkable advances. We have moved from film X-rays and traditional impressions to digital scanning, three-dimensional imaging, computer-designed restorations, and AI-assisted diagnosis. But artificial intelligence may be one of the most important developments yet.

AI does not replace your dentist (I sometimes call “AI”- AL because they look similar on screen))

Let me make one thing clear: AI cannot replace the training, experience, judgment, or personal relationship provided by a good dentist. Instead, I think of AI as another highly trained set of eyes. In fact, it is almost like letting 5 million dentists look at you and we all confer.

When we examine dental X-rays, AI technology can help identify areas that deserve a closer look. AI can sometimes recognize subtle patterns on dental X-rays that are difficult for the human eye to detect. So, Al might include early decay, bone loss, changes around existing restorations, or other subtle conditions that can be difficult to see during their earliest stages.

The DENTIST still makes the diagnosis and treatment recommendations. AI simply gives us additional information to consider. That combination of advanced technology plus an experienced dentist can lead to more thorough and more confident decisions. I think it makes me a better dentist!

Helping patients understand what we see

One of the greatest advantages of AI is its ability to help patients see and understand their own dental conditions.

Instead of simply being told, “You have a cavity,” patients can view an x-ray with the suspicious area clearly marked with colors or arrows. They can compare different teeth, follow changes over time, and better understand why a dentist may recommend treatment or why an area can safely be watched.

This creates a more open conversation between the patient and dentist and of course now the patient can make his own decision. Patients should never feel pressured into treatment they do not understand. AI-supported images can make dental findings easier to explain and treatment decisions easier to discuss. WOW, you have a choice and now you understand what the dentist is seeing and communicating.

Catching problems earlier

Many dental problems begin quietly. Small cavities, cracks, inflammation, and early bone loss may not cause pain. By the time symptoms develop, treatment can be more complicated and expensive.

AI can help us recognize possible problems earlier, when treatment may be smaller and more conservative. In some cases, the best decision may still be to monitor an area rather than treat it immediately. AI does not mean that every finding requires a crown, filling, or other procedure. It provides additional information that helps the dentist determine the most appropriate course of action.

Monitoring Invisalign treatment remotely

Artificial intelligence is also improving orthodontic care. With remote monitoring devices, patients can submit regular photographs or short videos of their teeth from home. The system evaluates how the teeth are moving and whether the aligners appear to be fitting properly.

If everything is progressing normally, the patient may not need to visit the office as frequently. If the technology detects a possible concern, the dental team can contact the patient and arrange an appointment.

That can make Invisalign (clear trays or other systems such as CandidPro) treatment more convenient while allowing us to follow the patient’s progress closely.

Connecting oral health with overall health

As you know, we believe that The mouth is the window to your health. Inflammation, infection, gum disease, and other oral conditions may be connected with what is occurring elsewhere in the body. Researchers continue to study the relationships between oral health and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and other systemic conditions.

AI may eventually help dentists recognize patterns that extend beyond an individual tooth.

Dentists will not replace physicians, but our technology may help identify warning signs that deserve further medical evaluation. Dentistry is becoming an increasingly important part of preventive health and longevity care. I heard a lecture once quoting “Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to your life!’

My perspective after more than 50 years in dentistry

When I began practicing dentistry, much of today’s technology would have sounded like science fiction. Now I use several forms of AI routinely to help analyze images, plan treatment, communicate with patients, monitor orthodontic care, and organize clinical information.

The technology will continue to improve, but the purpose should remain simple: Help us diagnose more carefully, communicate more clearly, and provide better care. I’M ON IT!

Artificial intelligence is not the future of dentistry because It is already here.

And when it is used responsibly, I believe it can make dentistry more precise, more preventive, and more understandable for every patient.

Dr. Spiker Davis The Paleo Dentist Helping patients connect oral health, total health, and healthy longevity.

FOX NEWS 26 Houston Interview with MELISSA WILSON-click How AI in Dentistry Is Transforming Smiles https://www.fox26houston.com/news/how-ai-dentistry-is-transforming-smiles

SUMMARY-It is obvious to ME that your mouth is the window to your health. In my opinion, we should all focus on our health every day and that includes brushing, flossing, dental cleanings and while we are at it, let’s visit our physician for that annual checkup AND let’s all work towards a healthier lifestyle. I hope this article will give you a better understanding that the MOUTH really is the Window to your Health and it is connected in so many ways. Who would have thought that AI (Artificial Intelligence) could possibly be contributing to your oral health and your overall health.

The doctors and staff are behind you and please call us if we can help. 713-781-2800. Also, please call or email JENNA NIXON if you need some detailed NUTRITIONAL counseling from a true WELL-TRAINED professional and call Dr. John Seger if you have any heart issues. REMEMBER, “YOU DON’T HAVE TO FLOSS ALL OF YOUR TEETH, JUST THE ONES YOU WANT TO KEEP”! LET’S MAKE 2026 OUR HEALTHIEST YEAR EVER! And it’s half over.

Spiker

“THE MOUTH IS THE WINDOW TO YOUR HEALTH”. BRUSH AND FLOSS TWICE DAILY, AVOID SUGAR AND PROCESSED FOOD FOR 2026 AND SEE YOUR DENTIST AND PHYSICIAN ON A REGULAR BASIS.

Spiker Davis D.D.S. yoursmiledr@yahoo.com John Seger M.D. 713-791-9444 Matt Guerre D.D.S. 713-781-2800 Jenna Nixon Nutritionist 281-433-9996 Jenna@goodthingsnaturalhealth.com

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How AI Is Changing Dentistry and What it Means for Your Smile