Dentists Are Using AI to Scare Patients Into Unnecessary Dental Work, According to an Explosive Investigation

Joanna Stern says a dental visit led her to investigate AI tools now used in dental offices.

She found one case where Pearl AI flagged serious plaque and periodontal treatment, but multiple dentists said the work was unnecessary.

Her reporting says some staff and dentists felt pressure from bosses to act on AI findings, with tools like Pearl AI and Overjet driving more procedure recommendations.

The report raises concerns that dental AI may encourage overtreatment, increasing costs and weakening patient trust.