20 June 2023

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Artificial intelligence in endodontics

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Background

With advancements in science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has been gaining more relevance in the field of dentistry in general, as well as endodontics. AI-guided algorithms have a great potential to better diagnose, treatment plan, and execute endodontic treatments, as well as outcome prediction of the various endodontic treatments.

Over the past decade, scientific publications related to AI in healthcare have quadrupled. However, dental literature on the subject remains relatively sparse. In a recent systematic review, AI has been utilized in various applications including dental imaging and diagnostics, caries detection, electronic records and robotic interactions.

A review of literature was conducted to assess the application of AI in the field of endodontics.

This article, "Artificial Intelligence in Endodontics," was published May 1, 2023, in the Journal of the California Dental Association. 

Results

AI has been used in a variety of clinical applications including the assessment of root canal anatomy, working length, presence of root fractures and outcome prediction.

Conclusion

Within the field of endodontics, AI has already been proven to be useful. The evolution of this technology and its continuous application can positively impact the field of endodontics and assist in preserving the natural dentition.

Clinical implications

AI is currently being used for specific endodontic applications and possible potential applications in the future horizon. 

When compared to other fields of dentistry, AI usage in endodontics is still relatively sparse but there are exciting areas that hold further promise for usage growth. Endodontics is not an outlier as clinicians look at future change within dentistry. Opportunities are ever increasing within the discipline. The future of endodontics as a treatment modality within dentistry possesses myriad possibilities in rendering teeth salvageable for a lifetime.

Jonas Bianchi. (May 1, 2023) "Artificial Intelligence Applications in Dentistry." Journal of the California Dental Association 51:1. https://doi.org/10.1080/19424396.2023.2199933.