Artificial intelligence usage among dental students/dentists of different educational level: a multi-country survey

Background: The field of dentistry is undergoing substantial changes due to advancements in dental AI, with its application gaining increasing attention within the profession. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the usage, and perceived barriers related to AI among dental students and professionals across different countries. Importantly, the focus is on educational contexts, involving both undergraduate and postgraduate dental students. Methods: A cross-sectional multi-country study was conducted via online questionnaire between March and July 2024 to assess perceptions of AI in dentistry. Individuals under 18 years old or lacking English language proficiency were excluded. The questionnaire had three sections: demographics, knowledge and awareness of AI in dentistry, and perceptions of AI’s effectiveness in various dental conditions. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were done categorizing participants into undergraduate and postgraduate groups with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Half of the participants (50.2%) had prior AI experience, with a significantly higher percentage among Graduates. Graduates used AI more frequently in prosthodontics, restorative dentistry and implantology (65.7%, 56.6%, 45.8% respectively; p < 0.05). While dental students had higher AI usage in treatment planning, periodontics and orthodontics (38.7%20.4%, 19.1% respectively; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Graduates showed higher AI usage, particularly in restorative dentistry and prosthodontics. Implementation of AI training into undergraduate and postgraduate curricula is recommended to maximize its benefits in dental education and practice.