ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE VS CLINICAL EXPERTISE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DIAGNOSTIC EFFECTIVENESS IN MODERN DENTISTRY

This article presents a critical analysis of the current state of research comparing the diagnostic effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) systems and dental practitioners. Based on data from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and original clinical studies published between 2024 and 2026, the achievements and limitations of AI are examined in areas such as cariology, oral mucosal pathology, periodontology, and orthodontics. Particular attention is given to the issue of external validity in existing studies, differences in AI performance depending on the clinician’s experience, and the depth of pathological processes. The study concludes that AI should be considered as a clinical decision support tool rather than a replacement for dental professionals.