Potential of <scp>ChatGPT</scp> in children's oral health education: A friend or foe in guidance for parents and caregivers?

Abstract

OpenAI's introduction of ChatGPT in November 2022 has sparked wide-ranging discussions about how artificial intelligence (AI) is influencing the way people seek and obtain information about dental problems.1 The impressive capabilities demonstrated by ChatGPT in handling an extensive range of questions, from basic information to complex clinical issues, have highlighted the potential of these AI tools as promising virtual assistants, demonstrating revolutionary potential in several areas.1-9 In the context of paediatric dentistry, its possibilities are vast and promising. The potential of ChatGPT to disseminate information about children's dental care among parents is unquestionable. In addition to being accessible at any time, its versatility allows it to cover a diverse range of topics, from guidance on preventive practices to post-treatment care and common children's oral health issues.3, 7 Furthermore, ChatGPT's ability to adapt responses according to parents' level of understanding can be a significant advantage, making information more accessible and understandable to different audiences, thus facilitating the transmission of knowledge. Another positive point is that in regions where access to dental care is limited, this tool can play an important role in providing diverse information about children's oral health. It is, however, crucial to recognize that, despite ChatGPT's agility in providing information, it faces considerable challenges in relation to the accuracy and reliability of the responses produced, resulting in inaccurate or incomplete information.1, 3 This raises legitimate concerns about the reliability of the information provided. Another fundamental aspect that warrants being highlighted is the possibility of excessive dependence on ChatGPT,8 which can limit a deeper understanding of children's oral health by parents and caregivers. By relying solely on AI for paediatric dentistry information, parents and caregivers may overlook the importance of regular visits to healthcare professionals. These experts not only provide personalized guidance, considering each child's specific needs, but also perform detailed examinations that can identify dental and oral problems that an AI system would not be able to detect. Furthermore, the human interaction provided by healthcare professionals is crucial for clarifying complex issues, providing emotional support, and motivating families to adopt healthy oral hygiene practices.8 This holistic approach is fundamental for complete education on children's oral health, as it is not only limited to the transmission of knowledge but also involves the creation of healthy habits and continuous monitoring of the child's oral development. Another relevant aspect to analyze is the ethical impact resulting from the excessive and indiscriminate use of ChatGPT in providing guidance on children's oral health. The persuasive way in which the system communicates and the impression of veracity of the information provided can influence parents and caregivers to make wrong decisions by adopting non-recommended practices, which can compromise children's oral health.1, 3 The ethical question that arises is the following: In situations where inaccurate information or inadequate guidance is provided by the AI system, who should be held responsible, the technology itself or those who use it?1 The ethical discussion is limited not only to the accuracy of information but also to the attribution of responsibility for the results in guidance on children's oral health.1 Therefore, it is extremely important that parents and caregivers are aware of the limitations of ChatGPT, understanding that this tool does not replace consultation with a healthcare professional. It is imperative to raise awareness about the limitations of AI and reinforce the importance of regular consultations with specialized healthcare professionals. This will ensure informed and safe decisions for children's oral care, emphasizing the need for a balance between the use of technology and expert guidance for effective and comprehensive oral care. In summary, although ChatGPT is a valuable tool in educating children about oral health, its use should be complementary to the guidance provided by health professionals. The combination of the convenience of AI and the expertise of paediatric dentistry specialists is essential to guarantee comprehensive and personalized care, aiming for the best oral health status for children. This integration can optimize the benefits of technological advancement without compromising the quality of children's dental care.

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