Clinical Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Periodontology: A Scoping Review

Background and Objectives: This scoping review aimed to identify and synthesize current evidence on the clinical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in periodontology, focusing on its potential to improve diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed-MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science (TM) Core Collection. Studies were included if they met predefined PICO criteria relating to AI applications in periodontology. Due to the heterogeneity of study designs, imaging modalities, and outcome measures, a scoping review approach was employed rather than a systematic review. Results: A total of 6394 articles were initially identified and screened. The review revealed a significant interest in utilizing AI, particularly convolutional neural networks (CNNs), for various periodontal applications. Studies demonstrated the potential of AI models to accurately detect and classify alveolar bone loss, intrabony defects, furcation involvements, gingivitis, dental biofilm, and calculus from dental radiographs and intraoral images. AI systems often achieved diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity comparable to or exceeding that of dental professionals. Various CNN architectures and methodologies, including ensemble models and task-specific designs, showed promise in enhancing periodontal disease assessment and management. Conclusions: AI, especially deep learning techniques, holds considerable potential to revolutionize periodontology by improving the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic and treatment planning processes. While challenges remain, including the need for further research with larger and more diverse datasets, the reviewed evidence supports the integration of AI technologies into dental practice to aid clinicians and ultimately improve patient outcomes.