Set to permeate all fields of healthcare and already doing so in many, artificial intelligence (AI) is now being embraced by the world of dentistry, which has recognised it as the powerful and progressive technology that it is. Indeed, it is very much an obligation of the healthcare industry as a whole to keep up with such developments and implement them in any way that will assist in improving lives.
Beyond the electric toothbrush
AI won’t merely transform the practice of dentistry. Just as we now own smartphones and watches, and move around smart cities, many of us will soon be brushing with a smart toothbrush, too. Capable of scanning your teeth as you brush, such a toothbrush can then transfer the gathered data to a cloud-based system, where your data is analysed in real time and assessed for any irregularities.
The result of all of this is that the earliest signs of cavities or cracks can be identified, and information immediately supplied to your local dentist and added to your medical records. With location tracking and pressure sensors already standard in the first generation of smart toothbrushes, you can already use app-based technology to regulate your brushing. The next step isn’t far away.
Less invasive checkups
With your oral health receiving such an exacting level of attention on a more frequent basis, the days of sitting with your mouth agape in the dentist’s chair may become less frequent. Already, intra-oral cameras and computer assisted design have cut down on the amount of time it takes to create the mould of a tooth, and the smart toothbrush will reduce this further.
No more sitting on your own while a series of x-rays is taken, and then waiting for them to be analysed. Your dentist will be able to create a detailed 3D image of your teeth, and show you exactly what is happening and how you can proceed with treatment. This also means you’ll be able to see realistic images of what any dental work will look like, before you decide to proceed.
Advanced operations today
AI technology has already made its way into the most modern dental practices in the Western world. Although x-rays are still essential, these are now followed by CT scans that create the same level of detailed 3D image for both you and your dentist to consider. From this, you can also see a precise mock-up of what the result of the procedure will be. Giving you more choice over aesthetic routes, this is why cosmetic dentistry in particular has taken the furthest step in embracing this technology.
And with around 10 million artificial teeth inserted every year worldwide, these implants will become a more popular option for people, year upon year. As AI continues to advance, each step of the process will become easier, for those both in and out of the chair. Leading practices are already offering these advanced dental implants in London, and you will see more cosmetic dentistry specialists offering the service nationwide as the technology becomes more widely available.