Artificial intelligence (AI) is making its mark in the field of healthcare, including dentistry. A recent multinational study conducted by Aarhus University delved into the sentiments of dental patients regarding the increasing role of AI in diagnostics. The consensus among patients is one of cautious optimism, welcoming the potential benefits of AI while emphasizing the importance of human oversight.
In the realm of dental care, the traditional scenario of a dentist examining X-ray images may soon be replaced by AI algorithms. This transition is part of a subtle revolution in dental diagnostics. To gauge patient perspectives on this evolving landscape, researchers from Aarhus University embarked on a study.
The study, now published in the journal Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, focused on patients’ attitudes towards the use of AI in reviewing dental imaging. While AI adoption is on the rise in this area, little is known about how patients perceive this technological shift. Associate Professor Ruben Pauwels from the Department of Dentistry and Oral Health at Aarhus University emphasized the importance of incorporating patient feedback in the dialogue surrounding AI implementation.
Overall, patients viewed AI as a valuable diagnostic tool that can enhance accuracy and efficiency. However, concerns regarding data privacy and the potential for increased healthcare costs loomed large. Most participants emphasized the necessity of human supervision when AI is utilized in diagnostics.
The study also uncovered cultural differences among participants from six different countries. For instance, Brazilian patients exhibited a greater openness to AI potentially replacing dentists in certain scenarios, possibly influenced by challenges in the country’s healthcare system.
Interestingly, patient sentiments align with those of dental professionals who acknowledge the potential of AI while underscoring the need for ethical guidelines and rigorous validation processes before widespread adoption.
Professor Pauwels stressed the importance of treating AI as a supplementary tool in healthcare, emphasizing that it cannot replace human expertise. Clear communication about the role and limitations of AI is essential, along with ongoing evaluation and validation of AI systems for clinical efficacy.
As AI becomes more prevalent and understood, public attitudes are expected to evolve. Aarhus University is proactively preparing for this shift by incorporating AI training into the dental curriculum starting in 2026 and developing communication tools to help clinics educate patients about AI’s role in dental care.
In conclusion, the integration of AI in dentistry holds promise for enhancing diagnostic capabilities. Patient feedback and concerns play a crucial role in shaping the ethical and effective implementation of AI technologies in healthcare. By navigating the evolving landscape of AI in dentistry with transparency and human oversight, the dental industry can harness the benefits of AI while maintaining patient trust and safety.
