Comparative analysis of diagnostic accuracy in endodontic assessments: dental students vs. artificial intelligence

Abstract Objectives This study evaluates the comparative diagnostic accuracy of dental students and artificial intelligence (AI), specifically a modified ChatGPT 4, in endodontic assessments related to pulpal and apical conditions. The findings are intended to offer insights into the potential role of AI in augmenting dental education. Methods Involving 109 dental students divided into junior (54) and senior (55) groups, the study compared their diagnostic accuracy against ChatGPT’s across seven clinical scenarios. Juniors had the American Association of Endodontists (AEE) terminology assistance, while seniors relied on prior knowledge. Accuracy was measured against a gold standard by experienced endodontists, using statistical analysis including Kruskal-Wallis and Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner tests. Results ChatGPT achieved significantly higher accuracy (99.0 %) compared to seniors (79.7 %) and juniors (77.0 %). Median accuracy was 100.0 % for ChatGPT, 85.7 % for seniors, and 82.1 % for juniors. Statistical tests indicated significant differences between ChatGPT and both student groups (p<0.001), with no notable difference between the student cohorts. Conclusions The study reveals AI’s capability to outperform dental students in diagnostic accuracy regarding endodontic assessments. This underscores AIs potential as a reference tool that students could utilize to enhance their understanding and diagnostic skills. Nevertheless, the potential for overreliance on AI, which may affect the development of critical analytical and decision-making abilities, necessitates a balanced integration of AI with human expertise and clinical judgement in dental education. Future research is essential to navigate the ethical and legal frameworks for incorporating AI tools such as ChatGPT into dental education and clinical practices effectively.