Artificial Intelligence Awareness and Utilisation in Scientific Research Writing Among Dental Students in Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCTION: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly utilised in dentistry, yet its adoption in scientific writing among dental students remains unexplored. This study assessed AI awareness and utilisation for scientific research among dental students in Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey with 321 participants from multiple universities, including dental students from the third year to the postgraduate level. The questionnaire was created using SurveyMonkey software. The questionnaire included multiple-choice questions about personal data such as age, gender, region, and academic level, along with three-point Likert scale questions that evaluated the awareness and application of AI in dentistry and scientific research. RESULTS: Results showed high general AI awareness (67.3%) but limited clinical use (12.82%). For scientific writing, 59.5% were aware of AI's potential, with 30.2% using it for research papers. Only 15.3% published with AI assistance. Social media was the primary learning source (49.5%), while 38% received formal AI education. Significant regional differences in AI use for scientific writing were observed. Most participants used AI because they just wanted to try it (38%) or because they did not have enough time (30.84%). CONCLUSION: The study reveals a gap between AI awareness and practical application in dental education. While dental students show adequate AI awareness, its implementation in practice and research writing remains limited, suggesting a need for greater integration of AI education in dental curricula.