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The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Dental Public Health: Current Applications, Ethical Considerations, and Future Directions
Abstract
Background
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its subset, Machine Learning (ML), have emerged as pivotal tools in dental public health by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing resource allocation, and personalizing patient care. AI offers significant opportunities, particularly in predictive analytics, personalized interventions, and expanding access to underserved areas.
Objective
This review presents a broad evaluation of AI’s applications in dental public health, emphasizing their roles in diagnostics, discussing ethical considerations, and outlining future directions to enhance public health practice and policy.
Methods
We conducted a literature review of published articles from major databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) between 2015 and 2024. We used relevant search terms (e.g., “Artificial Intelligence,” “Machine Learning,” “Dental Public Health,” “Ethical Considerations,” “Predictive Analytics”). We applied inclusion and exclusion criteria based on relevance to diagnostics, epidemiological data analysis, health promotion, and ethical/legal frameworks.
Results
The findings indicate that AI technologies enhance diagnostics (e.g., interpreting dental radiographs), support predictive analytics for disease monitoring, and enable targeted health interventions. However, significant challenges include data privacy risks, algorithmic biases, and compatibility with existing infrastructures. Ethical considerations, such as transparency, accountability, and equitable access are essential for responsible AI integration.
Conclusion
AI holds the potential to revolutionize dental public health by improving patient outcomes, especially in underserved populations. Further interdisciplinary research, clear policy frameworks, and strong data protection measures are required to ensure the ethical and effective deployment of these technologies. Future investigations should also foster interprofessional collaboration to maximize the benefits of AI in dental public health.
