Shaping The Future: Pediatric Dentists’ Views On Artificial Intelligence

<p> </p><p> </p><p><bold>ABSTRACT</bold></p><p> </p><p><bold>Background:</bold> Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming healthcare, including pediatric dentistry. This study investigated pediatric dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding AI applications in their field.</p><p> </p><p><bold>Methods:</bold> A cross-sectional survey using Google Forms was administered to 150 postgraduate students and qualified pediatric dentists in South Bangalore. The questionnaire assessed knowledge of AI, attitudes and perceptions toward its use, and future perspectives. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.</p><p> </p><p><bold>Results:</bold> A high level (88.3%) of AI familiarity was observed. The majority (71.1%) recognized AI's usefulness in pediatric dentistry, with many (70.3%) acknowledging its advantages (e.g., speed, data quality). Significant interest was shown in AI-related software and workshops (55.9% and 54.5% respectively). While most were neutral on AI's diagnostic abilities compared to humans, there was strong support for AI's role in tasks like detecting dental plaque and early childhood caries. A considerable proportion believed AI would not replace pedodontists.</p><p> </p><p><bold>Conclusions:</bold> Pediatric dentists in the study demonstrated substantial familiarity with AI and recognized its potential benefits. While some uncertainty about its clinical implications remained, a generally positive attitude toward AI integration within pediatric dentistry was evident. Further research involving larger, more diverse samples is needed to solidify these findings.</p><p> </p>