Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of Artificial Intelligence Among Dentists and Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is the process by which it is possible to program computers to mimic human thoughts. AI and its subsets machine learning and deep learning have been developed to analyze complicated data gathered from many sources using algorithms built into decision support systems. It has been widely used in the field of dentistry. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of AI among dental students and dentists. Methodology: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional online survey that was carried out among dentists and dental students in South India. A self-structured, close-ended questionnaire that was administered that consisted of 25 questions was included. The questions were circulated through Google Forms (Google LLC, Mountain View, California, United States), and it was circulated among the study participants through online mode. The data were collected systematically, and SPSS Statistics version 22.0 (IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.) was used for data analysis. Results: One thousand (595 dental surgeons and 405 dental students) participated in the study through Google Forms. Among these, 700 (70%) were females and 300 (30%) were males. In the study group, 635 (63.5%) were aware of AI, and 365 (36.5%) were not aware (p-value 0.000). Among the 21 questions used to assess the KAP, 14 questions were significant with a p-value less than 0.05. More than 60% agreed that the dental curriculum has to be updated with AI. About 269 (26.9%) agreed that AI will replace the role of dentists in the future. There were no significant results in comparing dental surgeons and dental students. Conclusion: The present study showed that the KAP among dental surgeons and dental students was the same. They believe that the dental curriculum has to be updated with AI. This study shows that there is a lack of knowledge about deep learning models and websites used for AI among dentists. Thus, it is necessary to include evidence-based teaching and training about the application of AI in dental practice to improve the future of dentistry.

Awareness and Approaches Regarding Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry: A Scoping Review

“…Sridhar et al [ 27 ] reported a 94.13% level of awareness among 460 participants. Kalaimani et al [ 28 ] reported a 63.5% level of awareness among 1000 participants.…”

“…Sridhar et al [ 27 ] reported that 76.52% feared that AI was going to replace clinicians. Kalaimani et al [ 28 ] reported that 26.9% agreed that AI would replace the role of dentists.…”

Knowledge and Awareness About the Emerging Trends in Oral Radiology Among Dental Students

“…The idea that AI could significantly change the role of oral radiologists in the future, even though the changes are expected to be limited, suggests an awareness of the evolving landscape of dental practice, which was also seen in the studies by Kalaimani G. et al (63.5%) and Sridhar M. et al (88.3%). 10,11 Dental education programs need to ensure that students are exposed to and educated about emerging trends in oral radiology to better prepare them for contemporary practice. Efforts should be made to improve knowledge levels, especially among those who do not regularly engage in learning activities.…”