Further to the recent BDJ article,1 we would like to highlight the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). As a practitioner who has personally observed AI's progression, I can attest to its significant and growing impact on our specialty. Nonetheless, while its benefits are promising, careful consideration must be given to its limitations and ethical implications.

AI has rapidly become an invaluable tool across many medical disciplines, and oral and maxillofacial surgery is no exception. Its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, surgical precision, and overall clinical efficiency is substantial. AI-driven image recognition, for example, can aid in the early detection of fractures, tumours, and infections by analysing radiographs, sometimes identifying pathologies that might escape even experienced clinicians.2,3

Robotics powered by AI are also being developed to assist with intricate surgical procedures, offering enhanced precision and potentially reducing the invasiveness of operations. Furthermore, the analytical capabilities of AI can support the creation of predictive models for surgical planning, helping to customise treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.4

However, alongside these advancements come important challenges. The use of large datasets for training AI systems raises concerns about data security and patient confidentiality, which must be rigorously protected.4 Ethical oversight is vital to ensure that AI integration respects patient rights and maintains trust.

Crucially, AI should complement, not replace the human elements of surgical care. Maxillofacial surgery requires deep clinical insight and a personalised approach that considers each patient's unique anatomy, health status, and preferences. The nuanced judgement of a skilled surgeon cannot be replicated by machines.4

To successfully integrate AI into clinical practice, collaboration is key. Ongoing dialogue and partnership between surgeons, engineers, and data scientists will be essential to ensure that AI technologies align with patient-centred values and clinical realities.4

In summary, AI holds considerable promise in enhancing OMFS from diagnostics to operative precision. As we move forward, it is vital to remain vigilant about the ethical implications, data governance, and the indispensable role of human expertise. With thoughtful application, AI can become a powerful ally in advancing surgical care and improving patient outcomes.