Adopting artificial intelligence in Saudi dental research and education: Trends, challenges, and opportunities

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various sectors globally, and dentistry in Saudi Arabia is no exception. AI applications in dentistry encompass improved diagnostic accuracy of several oral health issues, treatment planning, and administrative efficiency, thereby enhancing patient care and streamlining clinical workflows.[1] Recent Publication Trends To understand the current trend, we did simple bibliometric analyses using the following terminologies “artificial intelligence” AND “dentistry” and use the address field in the search options and input “Saudi Arabia.” It reveals a significant upward trend in AI-related dental research within the Kingdom. According to Web of Science data, publications increased from 3 in 2019 to 39 in 2024, with corresponding citations rising from 2 to 800. Similarly, Scopus data indicate an increase from 3 publications in 2020 to 40 in 2024, with citations escalating from 32 to 654. This growth underscores the growing research interest and contributions of Saudi scholars to the global dental AI landscape. Implications for Dental Practice and Education Despite this academic progress, studies indicate that while dental professionals in Saudi Arabia exhibit moderate awareness and positive attitudes toward AI, practical application remains limited. For instance, a study involving 389 dental professionals found that only 25.4% had utilized AI applications in practice, primarily due to the unavailability of courses and time constraints. Additionally, a cross-sectional study revealed that 77.1% of dental students lacked basic knowledge of AI principles, highlighting a gap in current educational curricula.[2,3] To bridge this gap, it is imperative to integrate AI-focused training into both undergraduate and postgraduate dental programs. Such integration would equip future practitioners with the necessary skills to harness AI technologies effectively, aligning with global digital transformation trends. Moreover, fostering collaborations between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and policymakers can create an ecosystem conducive to the ethical and efficient adoption of AI in dentistry. However, we need to make substantial investments in this field over the next few years to adapt AI systems in dental clinics, use the most updated AI tools for education at dental schools, and focus our dental research on AI applications. Conclusion Implementation of AI in dentistry presents a unique opportunity to enhance patient outcomes and operational efficiencies. By proactively addressing educational and infrastructural challenges, Saudi Arabia can position itself at the forefront of dental innovation, contributing significantly to the global advancement of AI in health care.

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