Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry

Authored by: Valentine Kim

Art by: Fiona Reilly

Dentistry is traditionally a specialty of handcraft and manual labor, but artificial intelligence is gradually reforming this structure. First, artificial intelligence is being utilized for diagnostics such as tooth decay detection. Tooth decay in its early stages have been ambiguous to detect by the human eye since its form is not consistent or noticeable. However, artificial intelligence-driven algorithms have been proving enhanced ability of detecting early decay symptoms [1]. In similar terms, larger illnesses can also be detected, such as oral cancer. One of the largest limitations of current diagnosis is that it depends on the eye of the dentist, which may involve biases and errors [2]. In fact, the diagnostic error in dentistry was estimated to be around 20%, which costs more pain and fees for the patients and also wastes time [2]. This can be reduced through an artificial intelligence model, which will only get better over time with more cases used as a data set.

Another strength of artificial intelligence is its ability to swiftly compile information and analyze data. Oftentimes, it is not easy for dentists to make personal treatment plans on the spot since they have to consider past medical records and the patient’s unique context in treatment. AI can be much more efficient in performing this and can be utilized in various subspecialties such as orthodontics, implantology, and prosthodontics [3]. In procedures that involve the placement of prosthetic devices like the crown, a 3D simulation can also be created, giving the dentist a better idea [3]. In addition to diagnostics, the ultimate benefit of artificial intelligence can come in during the procedures. Combined with robotic technology, AI can be used in assisting highly precise procedures like implant placement. Instead of the approximation that is currently done, real-time measurements can be made within the mouth and used for a more accurate procedure [3]. Marginal errors such as the tremble of human hands or the imperfect vision can all be solved with a mechanical assistant.

Disadvantages also exist from utilizing AI. At the moment, AI is costly to implement and technically unproven [4]. An increase in the cost will naturally be reflected in the price that customers have to pay. While theoretically perfect, AI is largely still unreliable in its field performance, meaning that it is not a viable option to rely on [4]. There are other problems such as legal matters where the law is ambiguous about who is responsible for the mistakes that AI makes [4]. Finally, it is also a question on how AI devices can be naturally incorporated into dental offices and become a part of the dental education for upcoming dentists. Will there be a period where there are AI-incorporated clinics vs. fully human clinics? 

Overall, artificial intelligence is not the most groundbreaking change for dentistry just yet. However, given the fast development of AI in other fields as well as its visible potential in dentistry, it is no understatement to say that AI will eventually transform dentistry [5]. Throughout the years, the most critical thing is to remember that AI is a tool at the end of the day and that ethics and patient health are of utmost importance [5]. In an attempt to enhance efficiency/accuracy and dentist convenience, patient treatment must not be overlooked. The best method would be to bring in AI’s elements slowly with natural adaptations in the clinic. 

References:

1. Dhopte, A. (2023). Smart Smile: Revolutionizing Dentistry With Artificial Intelligence. Cureus, 15(6), 1-10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10387377/

2. Tokede, B., Yansane, A., & Brandon, R. (2024). The burden of diagnostic error in dentistry: A study on periodontal disease misclassification. Journal of Dentistry, 148(1), 5-17. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300571224003907 

3. Bamashmous, M. (2025). The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Dental Public Health: Current Applications, Ethical Considerations, and Future Directions. The Open Dentistry Journal, 19(1), 1-7. https://opendentistryjournal.com/VOLUME/19/ELOCATOR/e18742106363413/FULLTEXT/ 

4. Ghaffari, M., Zhu, Y., & Shrestha, A. (2024). A review of advancements of artificial intelligence in dentistry. Dentistry Review, 4(2), 3-15. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S277255962400004X 

5. Mallineni, S. (2024). Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry: A Descriptive Review. Bioengineering, 11(12), 12-13. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11673909/