Unveiling the Future Artificial Intelligence in Prosthodontics: A Questionnaire-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology in healthcare, offering innovative solutions for diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management. In dentistry, particularly prosthodontics, AI applications are expanding from designing prostheses and predicting treatment outcomes to automating diagnostic processes. Despite these advancements, successful integration of AI into clinical workflows depends largely on the awareness, understanding, and acceptance of dental professionals. Evaluating their perceptions helps identify knowledge gaps, address concerns, and shape educational strategies for future adoption. Objective: This study aimed to assess awareness, perception, and current usage of AI in prosthodontics among dental students and practitioners, as well as to identify perceived benefits, limitations, and potential barriers to its integration into routine practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured online questionnaire comprising nine questions covering AI awareness, clinical application, perceived benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations. The survey link was distributed to dental students, interns, and practicing dentists through professional networks and social media platforms. Responses were collected anonymously, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to summarize trends and patterns. Results: A total of 201 dental professionals participated. While 80.1% reported having a basic understanding of AI, only 2.5% demonstrated in-depth knowledge of its applications in prosthodontics. Clinical adoption was relatively low, with 30.9% reporting some usage of AI-assisted tools, whereas 39.8% had not used AI at all in their practice. Nevertheless, 59.2% of respondents considered AI a viable adjunct or alternative in prosthodontic treatment, and 74.6% agreed that AI could enhance clinical decision-making and efficiency. Opinions were divided on whether AI could surpass human intelligence, reflecting both optimism and skepticism. Patient acceptance was considered likely by 55.7% of participants, though 58.7% expressed concerns about data privacy and security. Furthermore, 72.2% anticipated that AI integration would influence treatment costs, with varying views on whether the impact would be positive or negative. Conclusion: The study revealed that while general awareness of AI among dental professionals is relatively high, specific knowledge of its applications in prosthodontics remains limited, and actual clinical usage is modest. Positive perceptions toward AI’s potential benefits coexist with notable concerns regarding privacy, cost, and ethical implications. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational initiatives, hands-on training, and policy frameworks to facilitate the safe, effective, and ethical integration of AI into prosthodontic practice.