Artificial intelligence is making waves across healthcare, and now, it’s reshaping the future of dentistry—thanks to a pioneering initiative from the VA. Imagine a world where dental professionals can diagnose issues faster, plan surgeries with greater precision, and offer more personalized care, all with the help of AI. That’s the vision behind the VA’s new "Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry" training series, a program designed to empower dental teams with the knowledge and skills to embrace the next era of dental care.
This innovative training, developed in collaboration with the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, SimLEARN, and the Institute for Learning, Education, and Development (ILEAD), is now available for free to both VA employees and the public. Accredited by the American Dental Association, the series is accessible on-demand, making it easy for busy professionals to fit learning into their schedules.
What sets this initiative apart is its global reach and expert-driven content. The training draws on insights from top researchers, academics, and industry leaders worldwide, reflecting the growing international recognition of AI’s role in dentistry. The program’s launch follows the VA’s successful International Virtual Symposium on AI in Dentistry, which attracted nearly 700 participants and received glowing feedback for its relevance and quality.
The training series is structured into four essential modules:
- AI in Clinical Decision Making: Dental Disease and Anatomy
- AI in Clinical Decision Making: Surgical Planning
- AI in Remote Patient Monitoring and Clinical Documentation
- AI in the Business of Dentistry
Each module offers one hour of continuing education credit, making it a practical way for dental professionals to stay ahead of the curve. But the benefits go beyond technical know-how. The series also delves into the ethical, equitable, and trustworthy use of AI—an area that’s top of mind for both providers and patients. In fact, over 88% of symposium participants could identify key ethical considerations, highlighting the program’s commitment to responsible innovation.
For veterans, the impact is direct and meaningful. As dental teams become more adept at leveraging AI, patients can expect improved diagnostics, more effective preventive care, expanded telehealth options, and treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. The VA’s focus on education ensures that these advancements are implemented safely and effectively, with patient well-being as the top priority.
Actionable Takeaways:
- Dental professionals can access the training for free via the TRAIN platform or the VA’s Talent Management System.
- Each module is designed for flexible, on-demand learning and offers continuing education credits.
- The program emphasizes not just the technical, but also the ethical and equitable use of AI in dental practice.
- Staying informed and educated is the first step to safely integrating AI into patient care.
Summary of Key Points:
- The VA’s AI in Dentistry training series is a first-of-its-kind, free, and accredited program.
- It covers clinical, business, and ethical aspects of AI in dental care.
- The initiative is globally recognized and draws on leading experts.
- The training is accessible to both VA staff and the public.
- Veterans will benefit from improved, AI-enhanced dental care as a result of this educational push.
For those ready to take the next step, registration is open and the future of dentistry is just a click away.