At Tend, we believe technology should make care feel more human, not less. Every innovation we bring into our studios is designed to support our dentists, simplify your experience, and help you feel confident in every decision about your smile.
Our latest step forward is our partnership with VideaHealth, an artificial intelligence (AI) platform created for dentistry. AI is not replacing our team. It is here to support them. Think of it as a trusted assistant that gives our dentists more clarity, more data, and better tools to explain your care so you always feel informed and in control.
Why AI in Dentistry Matters
Dentistry has always been part science and part art. X-rays are essential, but they can sometimes be difficult to interpret. Small changes in bone or enamel are not always easy to spot, even for the most skilled eye. VideaHealth acts like a second set of eyes that never gets tired. It reviews digital X-rays instantly, compares them to millions of data points, and highlights areas your dentist may want to take a closer look at.
It does not make decisions on its own. Instead, it helps your dentist confirm what they see. That extra support means fewer missed details, earlier detection of potential issues, and greater confidence that your diagnosis is accurate.
AI Will Never Replace Your Dentist
Some people wonder if AI will replace dentists. The truth is the opposite. At Tend, your care will always be guided by a licensed dentist who knows your health, your goals, and your smile. VideaHealth simply gives them more reliable information to work with.
“Dentistry is both science and art. VideaHealth strengthens the science by giving us more reliable data, but it does not replace the art or the relationship we have with our members. It just means we can be even more precise in the care we provide.”
— Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend
What a Visit with VideaHealth Looks Like
When you come in for your exam, the process feels just as comfortable and straightforward as always. You will have a quick digital X-ray, which is then reviewed by the AI in real time. Your dentist looks at the image alongside the AI overlay and walks you through both views.
Instead of hearing about something you cannot see, you will be able to look at the highlighted image yourself. That transparency makes the whole experience feel less mysterious and more collaborative.
“When I show patients their X-ray with the AI highlights, the trust is immediate. They can see exactly what I am seeing. It makes the diagnosis more of a partnership instead of me just telling them what is happening.”
— Dr. David Shane, Lead Dentist at Tend Kendall Square
Benefits for Tend Members
- Earlier detection of cavities, gum disease, and bone loss
- More accurate diagnoses with fewer missed details
- Clearer explanations so you understand your X-rays
- Greater confidence in every treatment plan
By taking on some of the detailed work of image analysis, VideaHealth gives your dentist more time to focus on you.
AI & Whole-Body Health
Dental health is closely tied to overall health. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. By catching oral health concerns early with the help of AI, we are not only protecting your smile but also supporting your long-term wellness.
This is the future of dentistry. Tools like VideaHealth allow us to be proactive rather than reactive. Instead of waiting for a toothache, we can address small problems before they become larger. That keeps you healthier and makes your care less stressful.
The Future of Dentistry at Tend
For Tend members, this means visits are smarter, clearer, and more collaborative. You will see what your dentist sees, understand your options more fully, and leave knowing your care is backed by both human expertise and advanced technology.
“The best dental care happens when patients and dentists are on the same page. With AI, that alignment is easier than ever.”
— Dr. David Shane
Our partnership with VideaHealth is just one of many ways Tend is shaping the future of dental care. We will continue to embrace innovations that make your experience better, strengthen your trust, and keep your care as personal as it is precise.
AI is not something to fear. At Tend, it is something to celebrate. With VideaHealth, every exam becomes an opportunity to practice dentistry that is smarter, clearer, and more human.
When you sit down in a Tend chair, you are supported by expert doctors and the most advanced tools in dentistry, all working together for your healthiest, happiest smile.
FAQs About AI in Dentistry
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Can AI prevent unnecessary treatment?
Yes. When AI confirms what your dentist sees, it reduces the risk of overtreatment. When both your dentist and the AI agree, you can feel more confident moving forward.
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Does using AI make my visit more expensive?
No. At Tend, VideaHealth is built into your exam at no additional cost. The goal is to provide better care without adding anything to your bill.
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How accurate is AI compared to a dentist?
Studies show that dentists supported by AI are more consistent in detecting issues such as cavities and gum disease. This means fewer missed diagnoses and more certainty about the treatment you may need.
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How does the AI learn to read X-rays?
VideaHealth is trained on millions of dental images. This helps it recognize patterns of disease across different types of patients, ages, and conditions. It gives your dentist more reliable data in real-world situations.
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Is AI safe in dentistry?
Yes. The technology is FDA-cleared and designed specifically for dental care. It does not involve extra radiation or new procedures. It analyzes the digital X-rays you would already receive during your visit.
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What does AI do during my exam?
VideaHealth reviews your X-rays in seconds and highlights areas that may need a closer look. It does not diagnose or replace your dentist. It simply makes sure nothing is overlooked.
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Where can I try AI dentistry?
All Tend studios use VideaHealth AI, including locations in New York City, Boston, Washington DC, Atlanta, and Nashville.
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Will AI ever replace my dentist?
No. AI is a tool, not a replacement. At Tend, we believe the best care comes from combining advanced technology with human expertise. Your dentist always makes the final call.
Your Next Exam, Made Smarter
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