Navigating AI Standards in Dentistry: A Roadmap for Responsible Innovation

***QUICK SUMMARY***

The American Dental Association (ADA) has introduced new AI standards to guide the ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence in dentistry. Key documents include ADA White Paper No. 1106:2022, which outlines clinical and administrative applications; ADA Technical Report No. 1109:2025, focused on reducing algorithm bias through third-party validated datasets; and ANSI/ADA Standard No. 1110-1:2025, which standardizes radiograph data for AI training. An international ISO 18374 guideline is also in development. These standards aim to ensure safety, transparency, and equity in dental AI tools.

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming dentistry—from caries detection and radiograph analysis to insurance claim processing and clinical decision-making. But as adoption accelerates, so does the need for ethical, safe, and standardized use. That’s why the American Dental Association (ADA) has stepped forward with a set of key guidelines designed to help practitioners integrate AI responsibly into their workflows.

Here’s what every dental professional needs to know:

1. ADA White Paper No. 1106:2022 – The Foundation
This 2022 white paper offers a comprehensive overview of AI applications across the dental landscape. It addresses both clinical uses (like implant planning, diagnostics, and imaging) and administrative functions (like billing and scheduling). It also outlines core ethical principles and regulatory expectations that practices must uphold.

2. ADA Technical Report No. 1109:2025 – Tackling Bias and Accuracy
Scheduled for full release in 2025, this report addresses one of AI’s most critical issues: fairness. It advocates for third-party, independently validated datasets to ensure AI tools are tested on unbiased data—a vital step in protecting diagnostic reliability and equity.

3. ANSI/ADA Standard No. 1110-1:2025 – Imaging Data Standardization
As the first official U.S. AI standard in dentistry, this sets protocols for data collection and annotation specifically for 2D radiographs. This standard enables practices to seamlessly share imaging data and collaborate across systems, while ensuring compatibility with machine learning processes.

4. Proposed ISO 18374:2025 – The Global View
Slated for international rollout, ISO 18374 will define how AI systems globally should manage radiograph-based diagnostics. It includes guidance on data collection, annotation, and demographic considerations—and the ADA is playing a direct role in shaping it.

Why These Standards Matter

• Safety & Efficacy: Patients benefit when AI tools meet clear clinical accuracy thresholds.

• Transparency: Dentists need to understand how AI systems reach conclusions. Standards discourage "black box" decision-making.

• Equity: With validated, representative data, AI performs fairly across diverse populations—an essential consideration in modern healthcare.

As Dr. Robert Faiella, chair of the ADA’s AI task force, explains: “These frameworks let dentists harness AI’s potential while upholding ethical care.”

What to Do Next

Stay informed. Bookmark ADA.org/dentalstandards to keep track of upcoming guidance. Review how your current or future AI vendors address these standards.

Most importantly, lead your practice with responsibility and foresight. AI is here—but how we use it will determine its true value.

This review of the ADA standards is brought to you by The Hanlon Group, LLC — helping dentists leverage innovation while preserving integrity.