AI in Dentistry: Leveraging AI to Help Sell Better Smiles to Your Patients

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a revolutionary technology that allows computers and machines to complete tasks that would otherwise require natural human intelligence. 

 

Recent years have seen an explosion of new and innovative ways to use AI, but perhaps one of the most interesting applications thus far is artificial intelligence in dentistry. 

 

Within this article, we will discuss the various applications of AI in dentistry, as well as how you, your patients, and your team members can benefit from its use.

 

AI Applications in Dentistry

So, how is AI used in dentistry? Below are some of the most common AI applications in dentistry:

• Dental Imaging
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Diagnostics
• Clinical Decision-Making
• Dental Practice Management

 

AI in Dental Imaging

Dental imaging is an integral aspect of dentistry; it allows dental professionals to identify and diagnose various conditions and/or issues that would otherwise go undetected to the naked eye. 

 

AI-powered dental imaging systems can automatically and precisely identify cavities, tumors, fractures, and other dental conditions that require care. AI can provide dentists with valuable insights and data based upon its intelligent assessment of the images provided. 

 

In turn, this allows dental professionals to provide their patients with exceptionally accurate diagnoses and consequential treatment plans. Treatment planning and patient experience are high-quality across the board, and patients are better able to understand both their X-rays as well as their diagnosis and treatment plan. This, of course, can help encourage a high rate of treatment acceptance and encourages a strong bond between provider and patient.

 

AI in Cosmetic Dentistry

In the world of cosmetic dentistry, AI has unlimited applications that dramatically improve both the outcome of treatment and overall patient experience.

 

Digital smile design and planning allow the patient and provider to expertly predict the outcome of treatment. Smile design software works by analyzing the patient’s unique facial features and generating possible treatment outcomes that will work best by complementing the patient’s natural appearance.

 

In turn, this eliminates guesswork from treatment planning and allows patients and providers to work as an informed and unified team. Patients can preview what their smile will look like before any treatment is rendered, approving and changing the treatment plan until they are satisfied with the outcome. 

 

Overall, the use of artificial intelligence provides a more intelligent, streamlined, and personal approach to cosmetic dentistry.

 

AI in Dental Diagnostics

As previously mentioned, artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to examine and diagnose issues and conditions inside the mouth. Dental diagnostics are significantly simplified through the use of AI, as algorithms are able to analyze and process factors such as patient medical history while simultaneously examining findings inside the patient’s mouth.

 

AI can diagnose cavities, lesions, tumors, fractures, and more. It can also suggest the best method for restorative treatment planning to help restore the looks and functionality of the patient’s smile.

 

AI in Clinical Decision-Making

Because AI is able to provide precise information and treatment recommendations, providers are able to take a fully-informed approach to treatment planning and general decision-making. 

 

But it’s not just the provider that benefits from artificial intelligence; patients are provided with the information they need to fully understand what is being discussed, why they need the treatment that is being proposed, and what the outcome will be. This helps to eliminate disconnect between patient and provider, and it also helps eliminate the chance of treatment errors.

 

AI in Dental Practice Management

Artificial intelligence also has applications in administrative practices, as well. Through the use of chat bots or virtual assistants, you can provide your patients with a way to have their questions, comments, or concerns addressed around-the-clock.

 

AI also allows providers to completely automate:

• Appointment scheduling
• Appointment reminders
• Digital payment intake/record keeping
• Insurance claim submissions 

Traditionally, these are all tasks that can be time-consuming for your administrative staff. Unfortunately, this prevents your team members from devoting their full attention to the patients that are in your office. 

 

With the help of AI to completely streamline most administrative duties, you can avoid clerical errors and help improve the overall experience of not only your patients, but your team members, as well.

 

Benefits of AI in Dentistry

Below are some of the most notable benefits of using AI in dentistry:

• Enhanced Diagnostics: Diagnose cavities, lesions, fractures, and other oral conditions.
• Imaging: Thorough image evaluation.
• Treatment Planning: AI uses its knowledge of the individual patient combined with clinical findings to create a unique and effective treatment plan.
• Practice Management: Administrative tasks can be completely automated and streamlined.
• Cosmetic Dentistry: Smile design AI programs allow patients and providers to digitally plan and view the results of cosmetic dental treatment before treatment is rendered.
• Decision-Making: AI can provide dental professionals with intelligent treatment suggestions to help eliminate guess-work and assist with decision making for both patient and provider.

 

Challenges and Limitations of AI in Dentistry

So, what are the disadvantages of artificial intelligence in dentistry? While artificial intelligence has many incredible applications in dentistry, it is of course important to consider the challenges, limitations, and disadvantages that may potentially come along with its use.

 

Consider the following disadvantages of AI in dentistry:

• The cost of investing in AI technology and equipment may in turn lead to increased dental care costs for patients
• While AI is typically quite precise, there is always the possibility of a miscalculation or error
• Sensitive and personal patient data would have to be accessed and used
• Less direct human interaction may be concerning or even frightening for some patients that experience dental anxiety
• Liability may be questioned in the chance that there is an error made during treatment

 

Innovation and the Future of AI in Dentistry

With the amazing innovations that already exist, it is likely that you are now wondering: what is the future of AI in dentistry?

 

Artificial intelligence is constantly evolving and advancing, making the possible applications and opportunities in dentistry seemingly endless.

 

One advancement that may be close on the horizon is the ability to use AI to complete teledentistry. This would allow dental providers to view their patient’s mouths remotely in order to diagnose conditions – and maybe someday, even treat them without even visiting the dental practice.

 

It is also surmised that dental professionals may soon be able to continuously monitor their patients’ oral health remotely, keeping track of oral hygiene habits at home and advising patients if and when they are in need of treatment.

 

Safco Dental Supply: Best Dental Equipment and Supplies Online

For high-quality instruments and dental equipment, place your trust in Safco Dental Supply. We provide a wide range of dental products and equipment to fit every need, with free shipping on orders over $250. 

 

We strive to get you your products as fast as possible. All orders placed before 4:30 pm CST (3:30 pm on Friday) are shipped out same-day.

 

Give us a call at 800.621.2178 to speak with one of our experts about professional dental hygiene equipment and supplies.

 

Are you looking for more informative dental blogs? Check out this piece on how technology is shaping the future of dentistry.