The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Endodontics

F. C. Setzer, J. Li, A. A. Khan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Endodontics is the dental specialty foremost concerned with diseases of the pulp and periradicular tissues. Clinicians often face patients with varying symptoms, must critically assess radiographic images in 2 and 3 dimensions, derive complex diagnoses and decision making, and deliver sophisticated treatment. Paired with low intra- and interobserver agreement for radiographic interpretation and variations in treatment outcome resulting from nonstandardized clinical techniques, there exists an unmet need for support in the form of artificial intelligence (AI), providing automated biomedical image analysis, decision support, and assistance during treatment. In the past decade, there has been a steady increase in AI studies in endodontics but limited clinical application. This review focuses on critically assessing the recent advancements in endodontic AI research for clinical applications, including the detection and diagnosis of endodontic pathologies such as periapical lesions, fractures and resorptions, as well as clinical treatment outcome predictions. It discusses the benefits of AI-assisted diagnosis, treatment planning and execution, and future directions including augmented reality and robotics. It critically reviews the limitations and challenges imposed by the nature of endodontic data sets, AI transparency and generalization, and potential ethical dilemmas. In the near future, AI will significantly affect the everyday endodontic workflow, education, and continuous learning.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)853-862
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of dental research
Volume103
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2024

Keywords

  • computer vision/convolutional neural networks
  • cracked teeth
  • decision making
  • deep learning/machine learning
  • diagnostic systems
  • treatment planning

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

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