Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Your Practice
Only a few years ago, it would’ve seemed impossible to imagine that Artificial Intelligence (AI) would play such a significant role in dentistry. However, as each new year brings innovations and the digital revolution in dentistry continues, it’s perhaps not surprising that AI has found a role in the industry.
But how can you embrace AI in your practice, and what are the benefits of doing so?
The Meaning of AI in Modern Times
Although the term AI may instantly conjure images of androids and science fiction movies, the term actually includes a broad spectrum of functions. Basically, the term AI can be applied to computer systems or programs that are able to perform actions that would usually take human intelligence, such as language translation, data insight or voice recognition.
Looking at it from this perspective, you can see that AI applications are quickly becoming an essential part of modern technology, with many machines we use in our daily lives boasting these features. But how has this technology been used in dentistry and what impact has this had on how professionals can perform treatment?
Making Technology Simple
Arguably one of the main benefits of AI technology is that it helps to streamline the user experience when utilizing systems. For example, say that you purchase an imaging system that has AI-assisted patient positioning installed – this is an excellent way to prevent mistakes that often require retakes, helping to ensure this part of the treatment process is simple and stress-free.
A feature like this is also highly beneficial for professionals who want to ensure they have the most accurate images possible. Improper patient positioning is one of the core reasons for unusable diagnostic images,[i] so using AI can help mitigate the risk of retakes as well as help capture images that will provide the clarity and insight to devise a suitable treatment plan and provide the best care possible.
Voice recognition technology is also another way that workflows can be streamlined. Systems with this feature can respond directly to demand without unnecessary clicks or system interaction, meaning that if you asked for a particular patient file or needed to view something within your system you could merely ask for it and it would be shown instead of having to look for what you need yourself.
Helping Boost Patient Comfort and Understanding
Another interesting application for AI in dentistry is as a tool to help patients feel more at ease. Technology with image or speech recognition, for example, could help promote patient comfort during treatment, especially if there are language barriers or other impediments to normal interaction.
This works on a physical level too, and if an imaging system has a positioning assistant or similar AI technology, this will help ensure that patients are comfortable and clear on how they should stay during image capture, helping to relieve stress and anxiety.
You also need to consider the patient appeal that systems that use innovative features such as AI will have. People in general are impressed by cutting-edge solutions, especially as this tends to reinforce the fact that their oral healthcare professionals are using the best technology available to look after their health and give them a top standard of treatment.
Although not all AI features are as flashy as the androids pictured in sci-fi movies, they are still an excellent way to showcase the capabilities of modern equipment that are sure to impress patients looking for an excellent standard of care. This is especially useful if you specialize in complex treatments such as dental implant placement or orthodontics, as people looking for these treatments are likely to prefer practices that can offer them the very best quality of care available. In fact, tw0 out of three patients would consider switching to a doctor they felt used more advanced technology.ii
Embrace a Solution that Helps Patients and Professionals
So where can you implement AI into your practice? As diagnostic imaging is such a core part of providing exceptional treatment, investing in CBCT systems with AI capabilities is a smart move.
The CS 9600 CBCT from Carestream Dental is a wonderful option, especially for practices looking for a high-quality system. An extraordinary 5-in-1 imaging solution that seamlessly switches between multiple imaging modalities and offers extreme precision, the CS 9600 also has an AI-based patient positioning feature to help ensure that images are crystal clear every time.
Is AI the Future of Dentistry?
As technologies continue to develop and AI becomes more deeply rooted in the technology we use in our everyday lives, it makes sense that it will become more prominent in dentistry. Investing in systems that make use of AI is highly beneficial, not only as they help to streamline treatment for both patients and professionals, but also because they allow your practice to stay at the forefront of excellence.
i Waaler, Dag et al. Image Rejects/Retakes – Radiographic Challenges. Radiation Protection Dosimetry 2010. 139(1-3):375-9.
ii SOURCE: *2019 Global Digital Dentistry Survey: Asked among 7,000 nationally representative adults ages 18+ in 7 markets: U.S., Canada, UK, Germany, France, India and China
