AI in Dentistry: Exciting… Just Know The Risk

Everywhere you turn these days, people are talking about artificial intelligence. In dentistry, and small business in general, everyone wants in. AI promises efficiency, lower costs, and maybe even a little magic in how we manage our work.

We’ve gotta get into this AI thing fast!

But here’s what’s missing from most of those conversations: the fine print.

We’re Sold on the AI Benefits

AI can write notes, handle calls, summarize charts, and help run smoother operations. That’s the pitch—and it’s a good one. Who wouldn’t want more time and less stress?

The problem is that these benefits are being marketed without much discussion of the risks that come along for the ride.

We’re Not Warned About the AI Risks

When you start using AI—especially tools that process patient information—you step into a new territory of privacy and cybersecurity risk.
Ask yourself:

• Where does that data go?
• Is it stored securely?
• Can it be used to train other systems?
• Who’s legally responsible if it leaks or makes a wrong recommendation?

AI isn’t just another piece of software. It learns from what you feed it—and that means your patient or business data could easily end up somewhere you didn’t intend.

And beyond the tech issues, there’s the human challenge: staff need proper training to use AI safely and within privacy laws like PHIPA and PIPEDA. Without awareness training, mistakes are inevitable.

Even the Big Players Struggle With AI

Here’s the kicker: even large organizations with IT departments and compliance officers are struggling with AI governance, the policies and processes that decide how AI can be used responsibly.

If major enterprises can’t get it right on the first try, how can a small dental office or local business possibly manage it alone?

The Missing Piece: AI Governance

• AI governance isn’t just a buzzword. It means having a clear plan:
• Who owns the data?
• Who’s accountable for AI-generated actions or errors?
• What are the guardrails for privacy, ethics, and security?

Without these answers, AI adoption can create more problems than it solves. Governance is the seatbelt for this new digital vehicle.

Wath this quick video by Anne Genge, a Certified Information Privacy Professional with multiple certificates in AI law, governance, and implementation.

AI is incredible, but it’s not plug-and-play. Before you dive in, take the time to understand the privacy and cybersecurity implications. Build awareness and train your team.

Because in today’s world, AI readiness isn’t optional—it’s the new seatbelt in the digital age.

Want to make sure your dental team is ready for AI?

Myla Training offers Canada’s only ongoing security awareness and AI readiness training designed specifically for dental professionals.

Learn more: https://myla.training/ai

Want a consult right away? https://myla.training/dental-practice-cybersecurity-consultation/

Programs include:

• Cybersecurity Essentials for Dental Teams
• AI Readiness and Privacy Compliance Workshops
• Monthly Micro-Training and Checklists
• Consultation with Certified Privacy Professionals

Let’s make AI safe, smart, and compliant—together.