Integration of Digital Dentistry and Artificial Intelligence in Dental Education: A Study among Indian Dental Students

Background: The advent of digital dentistry and artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized dental practice globally. The rapid rise in prominence of digital dental technology necessitates their development for dental applications. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of dental students in India regarding these technologies. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 dental students across five dental colleges in India. A pre-validated, structured questionnaire was designed to assess demographic details, awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of digital dentistry and AI. The questionnaire consisted of 25 multiple-choice and Likert scale-based questions. The questions were divided into four major sections: Demographics, Awareness of Digital Dentistry, AI and Perceptions, and Attitudes Toward Digital Dentistry and AI. Results: A majority of students (84%) reported awareness of digital dentistry, primarily through social media (45%) and academic lectures (30%). While 80% students believed that digital dentistry could enhance clinical practice, 60% expressed concerns about the cost of implementation. About 76% students felt that AI could improve diagnostic accuracy and 64% were apprehensive about AI potentially replacing human judgment. Exposure to AI through seminars significantly correlated with positive perceptions toward AI integration in practice (odds ratio=1.8, P < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings reveal that while a significant proportion of students are aware of digital dentistry and AI applications, there exists a substantial gap in practical knowledge and training. The study underscores the necessity for curriculum reforms to incorporate comprehensive training in digital and AI-driven dental technologies.