Perceptiveness and Attitude on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Dentistry among Dentists and Non-Dentists - A Regional Survey

Abstract

ABSTRACT Artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging tool in modern medicine and the digital world. AI can help dentists diagnose oral diseases, design treatment plans, monitor patient progress and automate administrative tasks. The aim of this study is to evaluate the perception and attitude on use of artificial intelligence in dentistry for diagnosis and treatment planning among dentists and non-dentists’ population of south Tamil Nadu region in India. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional online survey conducted using 20 close ended questionnaire google forms which were circulated among the dentists and non -dentists population of south Tamil Nadu region in India. The data collected from 264 participants (dentists -158, non-dentists -106) within a limited time frame were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. Results: 70.9% of dentists are aware of artificial intelligence in dentistry. 40.5% participants were not aware of AI in caries detection but aware of its use in interpretation of radiographs (43.9%) and in planning of orthognathic surgery (42.4%) which are statistically significant P < 0.05.44.7% support clinical experience of a human doctor better than AI diagnosis. Dentists of 54.4% agree to support AI use in dentistry. Conclusion: The study concluded AI use in dentistry knowledge is more with dentists and perception of AI in dentistry is optimistic among dentists than non -dentists, majority of participants support AI in dentistry as an adjunct tool to diagnosis and treatment planning.