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As we stand on the cusp of 2024, the landscape of dentistry has gone through a transformative shift propelled by the rapid integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). The traditional methods of patient care are evolving, and the modern dental professional needs to recognize the immense potential that AI brings to the forefront. In this article, we will delve into the exciting future of dentistry and explore how AI is reshaping how we care for our patients, offering a glimpse into the vast possibilities.
Historically, dentistry has been a field deeply rooted in manual processes and the expertise of practitioners. There has been little investment in innovation and reinventing the wheel. However, the advent of AI is ushering in a new era where technology collaborates seamlessly with human expertise. Thus, it is now more critical than ever for the modern dental professional to understand, acknowledge, and embrace this change as they strategically plan for the future.
Diagnostic Assistance
Many studies have contributed to the advancement of AI in dentistry. Most of the documented work is focused on AI models that rely on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and artificial neural networks (ANNs). Traditional radiography provides valuable insights into oral health. However, AI takes it to the next level by analyzing and comparing images with unmatched precision, helping dentists assess and detect dental caries, calculus, and alveolar bone loss. In the future dentists may be able to definitively diagnose root abnormalities and oral cancer with the aid of AI but we are just in the beginning so you might have to hold tight, rest assured the future is bright.
As we know, AI algorithms can sift through vast amounts of data, identifying patterns and anomalies that human eyes might overlook. AI improves the accuracy of diagnoses and enables early detection of potential oral health problems. As we advance into 2024, integrating AI into imaging processes is not just a technological leap but a commitment to providing patients with the highest standard of care. (Khanagar et al., 2021)
Teledentistry and Mobile Dentistry
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 2.5 billion people suffer from untreated dental caries. (www.who.int, 2022) This staggering number represents a large population with limited access to dental care. However, with technological advancements, we have found creative ways to treat patients effectively. For example, Teledentistry (virtual dental care driven by technology) provides a newer approach to screening and diagnosing oral diseases. It helps patients manage oral diseases when immediate dental care is unavailable. (American Dental Association, 2022) Teledentistry allows more people in underserved and rural areas to be reached. The use of AI in Teledentistry is now being used for second opinions. When patients upload their electronic images into the AI system, it will evaluate them and email a diagnosis with treatment recommendations from a local teledentist. AI advancements in mobile dentistry are the next step. Reaching out to and educating these communities will help significantly reduce the amount of decay and other dental-related health issues. Dental providers can make a true impact on many people’s lives. (The Teledentists, 2023)
Efficiency in the Practice
As someone with consulting experience in the dental industry, It has been discovered that AI technology has many advantages. It improves productivity, increases case acceptance, and promotes continuity of care between clinicians. It is beneficial when training new hygienists with minimal experience. For example, AI technology enhances their ability to co-diagnose confidently and precisely, which has significant financial benefits to a practice. Additionally, it allows for better reimbursement from insurance companies.
When consulting with dental practices, metrics track growth opportunities and check a practice's pulse. Most dentists spend hours printing reports to track these numbers, which is time-consuming. However, AI technology can save time by analyzing data and finding missed opportunities, allowing more focus on the practice. It can help one open their eyes to even more possibilities.
Patient Education
Another benefit of AI technology is that it helps patients become more engaged in their oral health. By providing individuals with an interactive and educational approach, they can visualize what is happening in their mouths, better understand their condition, and take ownership of their health status. In turn, this creates value and retention. Educating patients about their oral health and the oral-systemic link can have a profound and lasting impact on their lives and foster the patient-provider relationship.
Custom-made treatment planning
AI is a flexible solution that can be adapted to different cases as it learns patient history patterns. It empowers professionals to create customized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Machine learning algorithms can analyze a patient's oral health history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions to recommend customized preventive measures and treatment options. This level of personalization ensures that patients receive targeted care, optimizing outcomes and enhancing overall satisfaction. Integrating AI becomes paramount in delivering customized treatment plans prioritizing individual well-being as the dental industry moves towards a patient-centric model.
Administrative Tasks
Beyond clinical applications, AI is making significant progress in streamlining administrative tasks within dental practices. AI-powered systems can automate repetitive tasks, allowing dental professionals to focus more on patient care. Automated administrative processes save time and reduce the likelihood of errors, enhancing the practice's efficiency. By no means does this indicate replacing administrative staff; however, dental professionals who leverage AI for administrative tasks will be better equipped to meet the demands of a rapid evolution in dentistry, especially as we approach 2024.
Communication Lines
Moreover, AI-powered chatbots can address patient queries in real time, improving communication and ensuring patients feel connected to their dental care providers. This level of engagement empowers patients and strengthens the dentist-patient relationship, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration. While the integration of AI in dentistry holds tremendous promise, it has its challenges. Privacy concerns, data security, and ethical considerations surrounding the use of patient information are critical aspects that demand careful attention. Dental professionals must ensure that the implementation of AI aligns with established ethical guidelines and complies with data protection regulations.
Additionally, there is a need for ongoing education and training to equip dental professionals with the skills required to harness the full potential of AI. As technology evolves, staying abreast of the latest advancements is essential for optimal patient care. As we stand at the crossroads of traditional dentistry and the exciting future powered by AI, the choice is clear – embrace the change or risk falling behind. The potential benefits of integrating AI into dental practices are vast, from improved diagnostic accuracy to personalized treatment plans and enhanced patient engagement.
Dental professionals who strategically plan for 2024 and beyond by incorporating AI into their practices will stay ahead of the curve and contribute to the evolution of dentistry. The future is here, and it is time to harness artificial intelligence's power to improve oral healthcare.
CHECK OUT KRISA’S BLOG: https://dentaleducationpartners.com/strategic-scheduling-and-planning-for-2024/
References
Khanager S, Al-Ehaideb A, et al. Developments, application, and performance of artificial intelligence in dentistry – A systematic review. J Dent Sci 2021; Jan;16(1):508-522. doi: 10.1016/j.jds.2020.06.019. Epub 2020 Jun 30.
www.who.int. (n.d.). Launch of the Global Oral Health Status Report. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2022/11/18/default-calendar/launch-of-the-who-global-oral-health-status-report.
Dentistry - Overview of Artificial and Augmented Intelligence Uses in Dentistry. (n.d.). Available at: https://www.ada.org/-/media/project/ada-organization/ada/ada-org/files/resources/practice/dental-standards/ada_1106_2022.pdf.
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