Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) aims to develop systems capable of performing tasks that require human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, and decision-making. In dentistry, AI is increasingly applied across multiple specialties, such as operative dentistry, periodontics, orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and prosthodontics, particularly in diagnosis, treatment planning, and prognosis. Aim: This review focuses on the application of AI chatbots in dentistry, exploring their potential benefits and limitations. Scope/Methods: The analysis covers the use of chatbots in patient communication, diagnostic support, post-operative care, surgical assistance, and administrative workflow management. The review also examines their role in enhancing patient engagement and improving operational efficiency in dental practices. Results: The review found that AI chatbots are most commonly employed in patient communication (83% of studies), appointment scheduling (76%), diagnostic support (45%), and postoperative care guidance (39%). Evidence suggests that chatbots improve patient engagement, adherence to treatment plans, and efficiency of administrative tasks. Accuracy in diagnostic assistance varied, with some studies reporting up to 88% concordance with expert clinicians. Common challenges included limited natural language understanding, data privacy concerns, and lack of standardization across dental settings. Conclusion and Future Perspective: Despite the advantages, challenges remain in integrating AI chatbots into dental institutions. Addressing technical, ethical, and operational constraints is essential to optimize their implementation and fully realize their potential in dentistry.
Kumari et al. (Sun,) studied this question.