AI systems, particularly those using machine learning, can quickly analyze these images and detect signs of caries. They save time and can improve the accuracy of diagnosis by catching early-stage caries that the human eye may miss [16]. AI can also be used to predict the risk of dental caries.

Dental AI tools include products that allow dentists to remotely analyze oral photos that patients submit via smartphone. Imaging tools use AI to guide patients as they capture images of their teeth and can then detect signs of declining oral health to flag for the dental care team.

Overjet has raised $53.2 million from investors led by March Capital to develop and expand an AI platform that helps diagnose disease from scans and other data, aiming to make trips to the dentist easier for patients and insurers.

AI will not replace dentists but will improve clinical outcomes, say experts. 'Artificial intelligence (AI) will not replace dentists; it will help make their clinical outcomes more predictable', says Professor Falk Schwendicke.