CATEGORY AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST 107 FEATURE: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Computer Vision: This field involves teaching machines to interpret and make decisions based on visual data. Computers equipped with computer vision capabilities can understand and interpret images or videos akin to human perception. Robotics: AI plays a crucial role in robotics, allowing machines to perceive their environment, make decisions, and perform tasks autonomously. This includes areas such as autonomous vehicles and robotic process automation. Expert Systems: Expert systems are computer systems designed to emulate the decision-making abilities of a human expert. These systems utilise a knowledge base of human expertise and an inference engine to solve specific problems within a designated domain. AI applications in dentistry: Diagnostic Assistance: AI algorithms are adept at analysing dental images, such as X-rays and scans, and can assist dentists in promptly detecting issues like cavities, fractures, or periodontal diseases. This expedites the diagnostic process and enhances accuracy, which can contribute to improved patient care. Treatment Planning: AI systems can be used to aid dentists in creating personalised treatment plans by analysing patient data, medical history, and diagnostic images. This can lead to more precise and tailored treatment approaches, optimising outcomes for patients. Robotic Dentistry: Robots powered by AI are emerging as valuable assets in dental practices, assisting dentists in performing specific procedures with unparalleled precision. Tasks such as tooth drilling, dental cleanings, and even surgeries can be entrusted to AI-driven robotic systems. AI controlled robots are already developed and used in the placement of dental implants and other procedures. If you have not already seen these at work, I strongly recommend a trip to You Tube as seeing these robots in action is fascinating and will give you a glimpse of how the profession is going to change as we move into an AI driven future. Predictive Analytics: AI’s analytical prowess extends to predicting potential oral health issues by scrutinising patient records. This proactive approach allows for early intervention and preventive measures. Virtual Consultations and Telemedicine: NLP technologies find applications in voice-activated systems or chatbots. AIdriven chatbots and virtual assistants can play a pivotal role in facilitating virtual consultations, providing patients with general queries, appointment scheduling, and post-treatment follow-ups. This can enhance accessibility, convenience, and patient engagement in the evolving landscape of telemedicine. Patient Management and Workflow Optimisation: AI systems can be implemented to help managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and optimising workflow within dental clinics. This technological intervention can result in heightened efficiency whist also reducing the administrative burden. Education and Training: AI-based simulations and virtual reality offer unprecedented opportunities for training dental students and professionals. Simulated scenarios provide a controlled environment for hands-on practice and skill development can create competence in real-world scenarios. Monitoring Compliance and Oral Health Habits: AI-powered devices can be used to monitor patient compliance with treatment plans and offer timely reminders for oral health routines. Particularly useful for motivating children and monitoring the use of things such aligners. Research and Data Analysis: AI’s data analysis capabilities are invaluable in scrutinising large datasets to identify patterns, trends, and correlations in oral health. This aids in dental research, potentially leading to ground-breaking advancements in treatment methodologies and preventive strategies. Embracing AI in Dentistry: As we navigate the evolving landscape of dental care, the integration of AI into practices holds immense promise. The benefits include improved diagnostic accuracy, increased efficiency in workflow management, and enhanced patient care. However, it is crucial to approach AI as a tool that complements the expertise of your team rather than a replacement. By leveraging AI strategically, we can elevate our capabilities, creating better productivity and ideally create better work / life balance. It is certainly a brave new world and all of what is outlined here, plus no doubt a whole lot more, will be in practices very soon. Never have we seen the introduction of new technology adopted and integrated into society so quickly, which given the current employment landscape, could represent a real benefit. However, it’s important to note that we are at the absolute beginning of the introduction of AI into our lives. Therefore, whether it will enhance our lives by alleviating some of the more mundane tasks we all must undertake, enabling us to focus on utilising our brains to improve the world, or if it will give rise to illiterate generations and the demise of creativity, only time will tell. u WWW.CHLOROFLUOR.COM.AU AUSTRALIAN FOR STRONG, HEALTHY TEETH & GUMS #SUPPORTAUSTRALIAN
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