Perceptions and attitudes of dental practitioners toward robotic dentistry and artificial intelligence in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Robotic dentistry (RD) and artificial intelligence (AI) are gradually evolving and may become an integral part of dentistry. The purpose of this study is to assess the perceptions and attitudes of dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia toward the use of RD and AI in dentistry. A national dental survey using a pre-designed and validated perceptions and attitude electronic questionnaire was conducted. The mean scores, descriptive analysis, t-test, analysis of variance one-way test, and correlations between participants’ demographic characteristics and responses were used as appropriate. A total of 426 dental practitioners participated with a mean age of 35 ± 8.5 years. The overall questionnaire mean score was 51.12 ± 8.2, indicating a moderate level of participants’ perceptions and attitudes toward RD and AI. Demographic items including age, gender, job’s title/rank, qualification degree, and working experience significantly influenced participants’ perceptions and attitudes (p < 0.0001, p = 0.003, p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001). RD and AI applications in dentistry could support dentist’s provider best possible care to patients. An emphasis on updating courses related to RD dentistry in dental schools and an increasing number of required continuing education hours and workshops may also be advocated. Future research may focus on the quality and effect of implemented educational programs and guidelines to demonstrate the impact of Rd and AI models in dentistry practice.