AI Technologies in Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies is increasingly being integrated into conservative dentistry and endodontics, offering support in diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical decision-making. AI, particularly through machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), has demonstrated the ability to analyse dental radiographs with high accuracy, aiding in the early detection of caries, periapical lesions, and root canal anatomy. Endodontics and restorative dentistry, two fundamental domains within dental care, have experienced substantial influence from AI technologies. Endodontics, which focuses on the study and treatment of dental pulp and periradicular tissues, and restorative dentistry, which focuses on restoring and maintaining oral functionality and aesthetics, have both seen significant advancements through AI. The objective of this chapter is to illuminate the diverse applications of AI within these critical fields of dentistry. Initially, we provide a foundational understanding of AI, tracing its evolution and explaining its relevance within the dental profession.