Turn AI Adoption Into Real Impact

AI and automation are no longer emerging concepts in dentistry — they’re becoming operational standards. As we head into 2026, practices that succeed will be the ones applying AI intentionally across workflows, patient experiences, and clinical decision-making. 

“Next year is going to be the death of note-taking. If you’re a practice still manually taking your own notes, it’s because you like to do it.” 

— Dr. Ryan Hungate, Chief Clinical and Strategy Officer, Henry Schein One 

Below are the three AI-driven trends shaping 2026 — and what practices can do now to stay ahead. 

Trend #1: Automation becomes the solution to workforce pressure 

With staffing shortages and rising labor costs continuing into 2026, practices are increasingly turning to automation to streamline documentation, scheduling, insurance workflows, and revenue cycle management so teams can focus on higher-value, patient-facing work. 

Steps to take now: 

• Find out where staff spend the most time on manual, repetitive tasks (e.g., notes, eligibility checks, follow-ups) 

• Look for automation opportunities that integrate directly into existing workflows  

• Measure success using tangible outcomes like hours saved per week, reduced errors, or faster turnaround times 

Trend #2: Digital-first experiences shift from differentiator to expectation 

Gen Z and millennials patients expect their healthcare to be as easy to access as the rest of their digital lives. Convenience, transparency, and speed are no longer optional. 

Tools like online scheduling, digital intake, automated reminders, and self-service payment options are quickly becoming baseline requirements. 

“I used to hear daily that practices didn’t want online scheduling,” said Alan Rencher. “That number gets smaller every day.” 

Steps to take now: 

• Review your patient journey from first touchpoint to follow-up and identify points of friction 

• Implement digital scheduling and communication tools that reduce inbound calls 

• Use automated tools to deliver timely reminders, confirmations, and post-visit instructions 

Trend #3: AI improves case acceptance  

One of AI’s most meaningful impacts is its ability to improve how patients understand and accept recommended care. AI-powered imaging, smarter treatment planning, and automated revenue cycle processes are helping practices increase acceptance while minimizing financial friction. 

“You get increased patient acceptance, fewer A/R problems, and cleaner claims,” said Dr. Hungate. 

Steps to take now: 

• Leverage AI imaging tools that visually reinforce diagnoses and treatment recommendations 

• Incorporate predetermination into treatment planning workflows to reduce cost uncertainty 

• Use automated revenue cycle management tools to minimize claim errors and speed up reimbursements 

By 2026, AI adoption alone won’t set practices apart. The advantage will come from how these tools are applied to support teams, meet patient expectations, and deliver better care. 

The future of dentistry isn’t about choosing between technology and people. It’s about using technology to empower people — and practices that act now will be best positioned to lead. 

Learn more about the trends that will define this year in the 2026 Trends Outlook, and check out next week’s blog for more tips.