Orthodontics
AI in Orthodontics: What’s The Latest Tech?
Table of Contents
Key Points
- The field of orthodontics is currently undergoing a transformation with the advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
- Thanks to AI, orthodontists can quickly scan a patient’s mouth using intraoral scans and diagnose common orthodontic problems with greater accuracy.
- Predictive analytics in orthodontics enables patients to consider various treatment options and accurately predict how they will transform their smile.
- Remote monitoring technology reduces the number of required office visits, enabling patients to scan their teeth at home and upload images for the orthodontist to review.
- AI is poised to continue revolutionizing orthodontic care, with exciting developments on the horizon, including smart braces.
What is AI in orthodontics? AI (or artificial intelligence) in orthodontics doesn’t mean a robot will affix your braces instead of a real-life orthodontist, at least not yet. What it does mean is that your orthodontist will be equipped with better tools that can diagnose orthodontic problems faster and more reliably.
AI in orthodontics also means treatment planning is based on an analysis of thousands of real-life cases, ensuring the best approach for your specific orthodontic issues. Finally, artificial intelligence allows for remote monitoring, helping your orthodontist track your progress in real-time and make treatment adjustments without the need for an office visit.
Perhaps the most exciting part about artificial intelligence in the field of orthodontics is that it’s constantly changing, becoming smarter, faster, and more capable every day. Providers like Kunik Orthodontics are excited to adapt and grow to meet the increasing possibilities. The future of AI in the field of orthodontic practice is bright, just like your future smile!
What is Artificial Intelligence in Orthodontic Treatment?
The field of orthodontics is currently undergoing a major transition. As orthodontists across the country begin to embrace concepts such as robotics and machine learning, artificial intelligence is shaping a new frontier for orthodontic care. Already, AI in orthodontics is improving diagnostic capabilities, informing treatment planning, and improving the patient experience.
AI in Orthodontic Treatment Planning
Many of the advancements in AI-driven orthodontic treatment can be found in the diagnostic and treatment planning stages. Using intraoral scans and AI algorithms, your orthodontist can quickly and accurately identify orthodontic issues such as malocclusions and crowding.
AI applications like these eliminate the guesswork in diagnosing common orthodontic issues, enabling standardization in orthodontic care. It can also aid in decision-making when it comes to recommending tooth extractions or orthognathic surgery. [1]
Predictive Analytics in Orthodontic Treatment Planning
Before the advent of AI, orthodontists could describe to you what your smile would look like after undergoing various treatments, such as braces or clear aligners. With predictive analytics, you can see a 3D image of what your smile will look like after treatment.
More importantly, your orthodontist can utilize predictive analytics to make more informed treatment decisions and even anticipate potential problems that may arise in the future. Overall, this can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Remote Monitoring
Another area where the use of AI is revolutionizing the field of orthodontics is in remote monitoring. [2] Orthodontic patients are provided with state-of-the-art AI scanning tools that can be used at home with their smartphones. They can then upload images of their teeth in real-time. The orthodontist then reviews the scans and evaluates the patient’s progress, analyzing factors like tooth movement and aligner fit. This eliminates the need for excessive visits to the orthodontist’s office, allowing clinicians to make treatment decisions remotely.
Greater Patient Confidence
Historically, visiting the orthodontist has been viewed as a frightening experience for children (and even some adults). Most of the fear associated with an orthodontist visit stemmed from the fear of the unknown. You never knew what might happen once you were in the chair. AI is changing all of that. By providing predictive tools and remote scanning, patients have more control over their orthodontic treatment, and they always know what to expect next. This gives them more confidence and helps them feel more comfortable with orthodontic treatment.
The Future of AI in Orthodontics
Orthodontists and their patients are excited about the future of orthodontic practice, thanks to the AI-led revolution in this field. Experts predict that in the near future, we may have “digital braces” or “smart aligners” that communicate with orthodontists in real time, informing treatment adjustments and flagging issues that could affect treatment outcomes. And about those robots programmed to affix brackets? It could become a reality sooner than you think.
Frequently Asked Questions About AI in Orthodontics
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding artificial intelligence in orthodontics
Can AI help with clear aligners?
Yes. This is in an area where artificial intelligence shines. With clear aligners, you can have scans taken of your teeth, and then AI will create models for your aligner sets based on treatment goals. Using 3-D printing, AI can actually help with the fabrication process, saving both time and resources.
What are the benefits of artificial intelligence in the field of orthodontics?
There are numerous potential benefits to using AI in orthodontics. For example, AI is often more accurate in identifying problem areas and creating treatment plans. It can also reduce the amount of time patients spend in the office, avoid costly treatment errors, and improve the efficiency of orthodontic treatment.
Are there drawbacks to using AI in orthodontic practice?
Potentially. As this field evolves, concerns are emerging regarding the protection of patient data, for instance. Additionally, AI may have limitations when it comes to treating unique or complex cases, as it relies on past datasets to make treatment decisions.
Will AI replace the orthodontist?
No. Artificial intelligence is powerful, but it lacks critical traits such as human reasoning abilities and compassion. Therefore, it cannot replace the orthodontist’s role in providing patient care.[3] Instead, AI is a tool that orthodontists can use to assist them in their work. By allowing AI to do some of the tasks associated with treatment, orthodontists can focus more on their patients, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care.
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[1] Artificial Intelligence in orthodontics: Critical review. (n.d.-a). https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00220345241235606
[2] [3] Liu, J., Zhang, C., & Shan, Z. (2023, October 18). Application of artificial intelligence in orthodontics: Current state and future perspectives. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10606213/#sec4-healthcare-11-02760