Friend or Foe? Artificial Intelligence in the Dental Field
How could Artificial Intelligence (AI) be used in dentistry?
Are there applications in your practice where AI would be beneficial? Are we on the verge of seeing dental technology change so much that AI becomes the standard of practice?
Our practice uses Pearl AI for image analysis, X-ray diagnostics, and treatment planning.
Does it replace the dentist’s years of knowledge? Absolutely not!
We view it as a tool, a partner, or a “silent” partner to help you look at things differently or a little closer. AI can evaluate shades of gray on an X-ray compared to what the human eye can see, so why wouldn’t a dentist want that tool in their tool belt?
We imagined some of our patients would be bothered when they learned that this technology was evaluating X-rays—but the opposite happened. Our patients embraced it, and our doctors and hygienists use it as an educational tool to inform our patients why AI gives us another pair of eyes.
Let’s Consider This!
Our world is surrounded by AI technology, such as Siri, Alexa, Chat GPT, Uber, Banking Apps, etc.
I initially had some misgivings about its use. Still, I can’t deny that our world is surrounded by it, and you and I use it daily without fully understanding artificial intelligence.
- My smartphone won’t unlock unless it recognizes my facial features.
- Certain apps won’t work unless my fingerprint is recognized.
- My streaming services, like Netflix, know what I like to watch and make recommendations based on my viewing.
- Google Maps gives me estimated arrival times on suggested routes.
- Smart home devices, such as home security or smart thermostats, can learn my preferences and automate my home security and make me more energy efficient.
- My emails get filtered into potential spam, social, and primary. I never requested that service, BUT it sure is helpful.
It is increasingly becoming integrated into our everyday lives. There is no denying that many of these AI features benefit thousands daily.
What Other AI Tools Can a Dental Office Use?
According to Chat GPT, there are many.
- Appointment Scheduling – AI can assist with appointment scheduling by interacting with patients online and booking appointments based on the practice’s availability.
- Provide Information and FAQs – Patients can ask online questions and receive direct feedback on the services offered. They can also provide information on various office operations, such as insurance coverage, office hours, and practice location.
- Reminder Calls – Calls for upcoming appointments and follow-up calls for services rendered or missed appointments can be made.
- Route Patient Inquiries – AI can direct incoming inquiries to appropriate personnel and make temporary patient recommendations until the dentist can see them.
- Language Translation – If your community is diverse, Chat GPT can assist in language translation to communicate effectively with patients.
Advantages of Incorporating Artificial Intelligence
Our practice has yet to incorporate all these applications; however, I see the advantages they can provide for a busy practice. AI could make the front desk team more efficient.
Our patients want easy and instant results regarding paperwork, appointment scheduling, and appointment confirmations. AI applications put these at the fingertips of the patients, which can provide them with a more rewarding experience.
Even as I’m typing and making grammatical errors or typing words incorrectly, they are getting corrected. That technology has been in place for quite some time, so it’s eye-opening to realize we have been in a world of Artificial Intelligence for many years already.
We have incorporated these into our daily lives, so why not embrace what newer technology can still provide us in our work environment?
So, How Do We Thank AI?
Funny, you should ask!
I went to the source and asked Chat GPT, “How can I thank AI for its contributions to my world?”
Chat GPT responded, “Ultimately, the best way to thank AI is by using it to solve problems, improve processes, and make positive contributions to society.”
Fair enough. Look, I’m doing that without even realizing it.
Oh, but here is something I did learn from a friend who is a big advocate of Chat GPT. You should always say please and thank you when asking Chat GPT questions so it understands that you are nice!
I did just that and was told, “You’re welcome, and have a great day.”
I think I will!
About the Author
Tracy Gryger, MAADOM
Tracy entered the dental world in 1986 and is proud to have worked for the same dental office for 38 years. She started her career as a dental assistant and assisted for five years; however, her passion was administration.
Tracy was drawn to the daily administrative tasks and, before long, was offered an Office Manager position. She has experienced many changes in the dental world over the years and has helped her office grow. Eventually, she merged with another office to become a very successful dental practice.
Tracy has been a member of AADOM since 2015 and received her Mastership in 2021.
She currently lives in Dannemora, NY. Tracy has a beautiful grown daughter, Emily, and many “grandpets.” When she is not busy in the dental world, you can usually find her in the wood shop with my best friend and partner, Tom, and our Cavachon, Bullock. Her newest hobbies have been wood-turning, beekeeping, and gardening.
