What is artificial intelligence?
The definition of Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) can be defined as the ability of a machine to demonstrate skills that are inherent to humans- to reason, learn, plan or create. If we take ordinary systems or machines as an example – they work according to set parameters or software. Regardless of the situation, they will perform their intended functions if they are not turned off. However, artificial intelligence itself could decide what to do in a specific situation, could develop an idea or create a work of art – skills that are not inherent to an ordinary machine.
As a technical system, artificial intelligence monitors its environment, receives data, processes it and performs actions related to achieving a specific goal. This extremely resembles human mental activity. Systems with artificial intelligence are able to adapt their behavior to a certain extent by analyzing the results of previous actions, working autonomously.
Al ‘s entry into the life of the “ordinary man”
Whether the development of humanity in this direction is morally and ethically correct is a question that cannot be answered. Do such highly developed machines not hide the risks of a dystopia in which machines become stronger than humans, as in the film “Terminator” by James Cameron, and are we not interfering too much in phenomena that oppose the laws of nature? On the other hand, Al discovers completely new possibilities in both medicine and dental technology. The emergence of penicillin and the “age of antibiotics”, as well as the beginning of its mass production also mark a change that Fleming himself doubted for a moment. But this only proves that the development of science does not stop at any moment. Processes, that are described as “fantastic and impossible”, eventually become the “new normal”.

Artificial intelligence in dental technology
In our previous article, we discussed chatbots and, in part, the application of artificial intelligence in dental technology. AI is widely used in dental laboratories and is not only developing, but also expanding its range of applications in the laboratory and beyond. From CAD / CAM systems to conducting virtual consultations – Al can be useful in many ways for dental technicians.
Imaging diagnostics
Artificial intelligence can analyze dental X-rays, CT scans and 3D images, detecting cavities, periodontal disease, abscesses, fractures, other diseases and even oral cancer with high accuracy. Artificial intelligence helps in early diagnosis and detection of abnormalities in these images, a human eye could miss. This, in turn, allows for earlier intervention and gives a greater chance of full recovery. Dentists receive much more information. They can react early to an emerging problem, respectively , and the connection with dental technicians is made on time, the information provides greater clarity and more precision.
CAD / CAM systems
Designing dental structures using CAD / CAM systems significantly improves and accelerates the restoration and treatment processes. CAD (computer-aided design) is used to digitally design dental prostheses, restorations and orthodontic appliances. Applications include the creation of crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays and implants. CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) converts digital designs into physical products using milling machines, 3D printers or other manufacturing tools. AI helps analyze patient data (3D scans, X-rays, clinical photos), which helps improve accuracy. AI also automates repetitive tasks, predicts outcomes and assists in treatment planning. This allows dental laboratories to produce restorations that precisely meet the functional and aesthetic requirements of each individual patient. At the same time, material waste is minimized and production costs are reduced.
Automated design of dental restorations
Another significant application of AI in the dental laboratory is the use of algorithms for automated design of dental restorations. For example, these are devices such as crowns, bridges and dentures. By analyzing large datasets of dental cases and building on the best practices of experienced dental technicians, these algorithms can generate highly accurate and aesthetically pleasing restoration designs in a much shorter time compared to the time it would take a dental technician. This increases the productivity of dental laboratories and helps reduce the risk of human error. A consistently high level of quality is ensured for all restorations.
Conclusion
Artificial intelligence provides new opportunities for the approach to dental treatment. Timely intervention and quality dental products remain the work of a good specialist and we cannot say that Al completely replaces the dental technician or dentist in his work. The role of Al is to assist the laboratory and practice in creating faster, more precise products and successfully treating their patients. Without good specialists to guide artificial intelligence, it would have no meaning and value.
Sources:
- 09/23/2023. Day B. How Artificial Intelligence is Driving Dental Technology; https://www.dental-tribune.com/news/how-artificial-intelligence-is-driving-dental-technology/
- 31.03.2023. Dr. Al Hasini . A. The Role of Al in Dental technology; https://instituteofdigitaldental technology.com/news/the-role-of-ai-in-dental technology/
- 06.07.2022. Asenov P. Alexander Fleming and the non-accidental discovery of accidental penicillin; https://www.svobodnaevropa.bg/a/31931577.html
- 2021. Nguyen T. Durand R., Bilanyuk O. et al. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Dental technology; https://www.dentalnews.com/2021/10/08/artificial-intelligence-ai-dental technology/
- 04.09.2020. European Parliament; https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/bg/article/20200827STO85804/izkustveniiat-intelekt-kakvo-predstavliava-i-kak-se-izpolzva