Background: Traumatic forces on anterior teeth are predominantly horizontal and differ from physiological loads in both magnitude and direction, leading to unfavorable stress transmission to the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. This may impair healing and increase the risk of secondary damage. Understanding the biomechanical behavior of different splinting materials under such conditions is essential. Finite element analysis (FEA) is a reliable method to simulate traumatic forces and evaluate stress distribution patterns. Aim: The aim is to compare von Mises stress distribution and deformation patterns in maxillary anterior teeth stabilized with stainless steel wire–composite splints and fiber-reinforced composite splints under simulated horizontal traumatic loading using three-dimensional FEA. Materials and Methods: A three-dimensional finite element model of the maxillary anterior region of a 10-year-old child was developed using cone-beam computed tomography data. Two splint types were simulated: a 27G stainless steel wire–composite splint and a fiber-reinforced composite splint. The model included enamel, dentin, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and splint materials, all assumed to be homogeneous, isotropic, and linearly elastic. A standardized horizontal force was applied to the labial surfaces of anterior teeth. Von Mises stress and total deformation were analyzed. Results: Horizontal loading produced higher stress concentrations than physiological forces. Stainless steel splints showed greater stress accumulation in the splint and adjacent teeth, especially in canines and central incisors. Fiber-reinforced splints exhibited lower stress concentrations with better distribution but greater deformation. Conclusion: Fiber-reinforced composite splints demonstrated more favorable stress distribution under traumatic forces, supporting their clinical use as flexible splints in pediatric trauma management.
Introduction: Clinical observations, radiological interpretation, patient-specific factors, and evidence-based standards must be integrated when making clinical decisions in dentistry. Large language models (LLMs) represent a recent advancement in artificial intelligence with the potential to support complex cognitive tasks in healthcare. This narrative review aims to examine the impact of LLMs on the decision-making practices employed in the field of dentistry. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. English-language publications between 2018 and 2025 related to LLMs, artificial intelligence, clinical decision-making, and dentistry were reviewed and qualitatively synthesized. Results: Across the 19 included articles, LLMs demonstrated evidence of supporting structured clinical reasoning and differential diagnosis generation in contexts applicable to dentistry. Some relevant findings included LLM-assisted synthesis of surgical options, identification of hallucination and automation bias as patient safety risks unique to AI-assisted surgical decision-making, and evidence from dental-specific LLM studies that accuracy in structured reasoning tasks is promising but inconsistent in complex or rare case scenarios. Patient communication, documentation, and surgical education were secondary application domains where LLMs demonstrated consistent utility across included sources. Discussion: The reviewed evidence suggests LLMs can serve as adjunctive decision-support tools in dentistry, particularly for information synthesis, structured reasoning scaffolding, and trainee education. Key gaps include the absence of prospective clinical validation studies, Specific LLM training datasets, and regulatory frameworks governing AI-assisted decisions. LLMs should supplement and not supplant the clinical judgment of the dental practitioners.
Background: Immunofluorescence (IF) is a laboratory test used for antigen detection by using specific antibodies linked to a fluorescent tag. This review article aims to explore and explain the principles, methods, and patterns of diagnosis, as well as the clinical implications of direct and indirect IF (IIF) tests, especially in oral mucosal disorders. Methods: A PubMed search was independently conducted by two reviewers to identify articles published between 2002 and 2021 describing the role of IF in the diagnosis of oral mucosal disorders. Results: The analysis of the literature indicates that IF, including both direct and indirect techniques, is a robust adjunctive diagnostic modality in vesiculobullous lesions of the oral mucosa. Direct IF aids in detecting tissue-bound antibodies and complement deposition, whereas IIF identifies circulating autoantibodies. When integrated with clinical findings and histopathological examination, these techniques substantially enhance diagnostic accuracy, facilitate early detection, and assist in disease differentiation. Discussion: While histopathology remains the cornerstone for diagnosing oral mucosal lesions, IF is an indispensable complementary tool. It enhances diagnostic precision and provides critical insights into disease pathogenesis, particularly in vesiculobullous lesions. Incorporating these techniques into routine diagnostic protocols can significantly improve patient management and clinical outcomes.
Introduction: The current review was conducted to analyze the success rate of using herbal obturating materials in pediatric dentistry and to compare their success rates for primary molars and postoperative pain, using meta-analyses and a systematic review. Methods: An extensive search analyzing the efficacy and success rate of herbal obturating materials in the pediatric population was conducted through the online databases such as Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, and SCOPUS with no restrictions on the time range. The study data were obtained and analyzed through meta-analyses software, and to avoid bias in the data, the software Newcastle–Ottawa scale was employed. Results: The review was performed and analyzed according to the PRISMA regulations formulated for meta-analyses and systematic review and the review results were filed at PROSPERO, with the ID CRD420251132204. In accordance with the inclusion criteria, about 8 works were selected and the meta-analysis results showed that success rates were similar in the herbal compositions in comparison to the control composition, with an odds ratio equal to 0.71 (95% confidence interval: [0.27,1.85], P = 0.48). Discussion: Herbal obturating materials are a promising new option for treating endodontically compromised primary teeth. They are effective in reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing infection. However, more research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy.
Introduction: Image-based artificial intelligence, especially that used for interpreting radiographs, has been at the forefront of digital innovation in endodontics. Large language models (LLMs) are emerging as unique tools that can analyze free-text clinical data and incorporate patient histories. This review is focused on evaluating the current research on LLMs’ roles in endodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and predicting treatment outcomes. Methods: Research articles published between 2021 and 2025 were identified through comprehensive searches of electronic databases, including PubMed and Scopus, using the terms “Generative AI,” “Large Language Models,” “Artificial Intelligence,” and “Endodontics”. Results: Published reports indicate that LLM can perform at a level comparable to board-style diagnostic reasoning tasks. They may also help in guideline-based antibiotic prescribing and assessing case complexity. However, significant limitations remain, particularly concerning hallucinated outputs and patient data security. Discussion: Current reports suggest that LLMs are moving beyond experimental applications and toward practical roles where they can help in decision-making. Nevertheless, their use remains adjunctive, and careful human oversight is required when these systems are incorporated into clinical workflows.
Introduction: Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive diagnostic method that analyzes tumor-derived components in various body fluids, including blood, urine, saliva etc. By enabling repeated sampling, this technique allows real-time assessment of tumor heterogeneity, disease progression, and response to treatment. This review discusses the current understanding and clinical applications of liquid biopsy, particularly in oral cancer, and other systemic diseases. Methods: For this review, a narrative literature search was carried out using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and later relevant articles that focused on circulating biomarkers, different liquid biopsy techniques, and their clinical applications were selected and analyzed. Results: Key biomarkers include circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs), extracellular vesicles (exosomes), microRNAs (miRNAs), and tumor-educated platelets. ctDNA shows high specificity for mutation detection, while CTCs are associated with disease stage and prognosis but have limited sensitivity in early disease. Exosomes and miRNAs are linked to tumor-related molecular changes, whereas cfDNA and cfRNA provide genetic and epigenetic data. In oral cancer, salivary miRNAs and cfDNA are useful for non-invasive detection and monitoring. Discussion: Liquid biopsy improves precision diagnostics through repeatable sampling, minimal invasiveness, and continuous monitoring of molecular changes. Future directions include early cancer detection, incorporation of artificial intelligence, and expanded use in dental and systemic diseases. Standardization of protocols and improved analytical sensitivity are essential for wider clinical adoption.
Background: Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), particularly oral leukoplakia (OL) and oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), carry a high risk of progression to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Early detection remains difficult in low-resource settings, highlighting serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as a promising non-invasive biomarker. Aim: To assess the clinical effectiveness of serum LDH as a screening biomarker among OL, OSF, and OSCC compared with healthy people. Materials and Methods: This comparative study involved 60 participants, equally distributed across 4 groups: healthy controls, OL, OSF, and OSCC. Serum LDH levels were analyzed using a standardized biochemical analyzer. Disease-specific clinical parameters of severity of disease (lesion diameter, inter-incisal distance, and tumor T stage) were recorded. Statistical analyses were used to find out differences between groups and relationships between LDH and clinical severity. Results: Disease-specific severity reflected moderate OL lesion size, restricted mouth opening in OSF, and intermediate OSCC stage. Serum LDH rose progressively from controls (166.3 IU/L) to OSCC (328.9 IU/L) (P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed strong diagnostic performance (area under the curve: OSCC 0.92; OPMDs 0.84). At 200 IU/L, sensitivity was 86.7% and specificity 93.3%, supporting LDH as a reliable screening biomarker. Conclusion: Serum LDH shows a stepwise elevation in severity from healthy mucosa to OPMDs and oral cancer. Although not disease-specific, LDH may be a promising adjunctive screening biomarker for early identification of OPMDs and OSCC, especially in resource-limited settings.
Background: Due to immune system weakness, patients recovering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are more susceptible to opportunistic fungal infections, of which mucormycosis is one of the most virulent and potentially fatal forms. Mucormycosis, which typically begins in the nasal and paranasal sinuses, is especially important to dentists because of its unique oral presentation and its capacity to result in widespread maxillofacial bone loss, including osteonecrosis. Aim: In patients with a history of COVID-19 infection, the current study sought to assess and contrast cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) results of mucormycotic osteomyelitis and nonmucormycotic-related osteonecrosis. Materials and Methods: Patients who recovered from COVID-19 and presented with osteomyelitis or osteonecrosis of the jaws were analyzed retrospectively using CBCT to evaluate radiographic characteristics, site involvement, and demographic distribution. Results: The majority of patients in the study were between the ages of 40 and 55, with 71.6% of the population being men and 28.4% being women. 32.9% of cases were nonmucormycotic osteonecrosis, while 67.1% were mucormycosis-associated osteomyelitis. While mandibular involvement was seen in 7.3% and 81.3% of these groups, respectively, the maxilla was mostly implicated in mucormycosis cases (85.8%) as opposed to 13.8% in nonmucormycosis cases. Conclusion: With nonmucormycotic lesions more frequently occurring in the mandible and mucormycosis exhibiting a maxillary predilection, the study demonstrates a substantial association between COVID-19 and both mucormycosis-related osteomyelitis and nonmucormycotic osteonecrosis.
Background: The bifid mandibular canal (BMC) may increase the risk of neurovascular complications during mandibular surgery; therefore, accurate radiological assessment of the canal is of critical clinical importance. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of BMCs and to examine their morphological characteristics according to type using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: In this study, CBCT images of 320 individuals (a total of 640 mandibular canals) were analyzed, and the presence and morphological types of BMCs were recorded. The BMCs were classified into four main types: (1) Forward type (branches extending anteriorly from the main canal, with intersecting or without intersecting), (2) Dental type (terminating at the level of the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd molars), (3) Retromolar type, and (4) Buccolingual type (branches extending buccally or lingually from the main canal). Descriptive statistical methods were used for data analysis, and the relationship between the presence of BMCs and sex was evaluated using the Chi-square test. Results: Among the 320 individuals included in the study (169 female, 151 male), BMCs were detected in 11.3% (n = 36) of the right mandibles and 12.2% (n = 39) of the left mandibles. The most common variation on the right side was the retromolar type (27.8%), followed by the dental type terminating at the third molar (19.4%) and the anteriorly extending with intersecting type (13.9%). On the left side, the retromolar type was also the most frequently observed variation (43.6%), followed by the anteriorly extending without intersecting type (17.9%). No statistically significant relationship was found between BMC presence and sex on either side (right: P > 0.05; left: P > 0.05). Conclusion: BMC may present in various morphological types, and preoperative radiological identification of these variations is of great importance in preventing potential neurovascular complications during surgical procedures.
Introduction: Oral cancer imposes substantial global health challenges, with emerging evidence linking microbial dysbiosis to disease development. This narrative review examines whether modulating oral bacterial communities represents a viable prevention strategy. Methods: We conducted a narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed literature (2020–2025) using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search terms included “oral microbiome,” “oral cancer,” “oral squamous cell carcinoma,” “Fusobacterium nucleatum,” “Porphyromonas gingivalis,” “probiotics,” and “dysbiosis.” We prioritized systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and mechanistic studies examining bacterial signatures, carcinogenic pathways, and microbiome-targeted interventions. Results: We identified 36 relevant studies, including 8 meta-analyses, 15 systematic reviews, 7 RCTs, and 6 mechanistic investigations. Meta-analyses consistently demonstrate enrichment of Fusobacterium nucleatum (standardized mean difference 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43–0.87), Porphyromonas gingivalis (hazard ratio 1.74, 95% CI 1.15–2.62), and Prevotella species in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues. Periodontitis represents an independent risk factor with pooled odds ratios (OR) of 3.17 (95% CI 1.78–5.64) and 3.32 (95% CI 1.84–5.99). Mediterranean dietary patterns show the strongest intervention evidence with 60%–80% risk reduction (OR 0.20–0.565). Probiotics effectively prevent oral mucositis in cancer therapy (risk reduction 35%, risk ratio 0.65, 95% CI 0.53–0.81). Salivary microbiome profiling demonstrates diagnostic potential for OSCC detection. Discussion: Compelling associations exist between oral dysbiosis and cancer development, though definitive proof of causation remains incomplete. The primary limitation involves the absence of randomized trials using cancer incidence as endpoints. Current evidence supports periodontal disease management and dietary counseling, while probiotic cancer prevention requires rigorous clinical validation before implementation.
Background: The mandible is a significant bone for forensic sex analysis due to its distinct differences between males and females, especially in degraded remains. Aim: This study assesses the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in measuring mandibular ramus breadth and gonial angle for sex determination. Materials and Methods: Archived CBCT scans of individuals between 18 and 60 years were retrospectively analyzed using a quantitative approach. The study included images of the entire mandible with complete dentition while excluding those with pathological changes. Measurements were taken for maximum and minimum ramus breadth and gonial angle by two blinded observers. Statistical analyses included t-tests, analysis of variance, and Duncan’s post hoc tests, utilizing SPSS Version 19.0. Results: Significant differences were found in gonial angles between sexes, with males exhibiting smaller angles (128.60° right, 127.15° left) compared to females (132.53° right, 130.05° left, P = 0.029 and P = 0.043). Minimum ramus breadth showed significant differences on the left side (P = 0.045). No significant differences were observed in maximum ramus breadth across age groups. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that CBCT is an effective radiographic tool, and also, parameters of mandibular ramus breadth and gonial angle are reliable markers of sexual dimorphism.
Background: Safe discharge after nitrous oxide–oxygen conscious sedation in children requires ensuring full psychomotor and cognitive recovery. The number cancellation test (NCT) can serve as an objective tool to assess these functions. However, normative data for Indian children are lacking. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the cognitive abilities of 4–12-year-old children using the NCT and establish age-wise normative data under normal (nonsedated) conditions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 healthy children aged 4–12 years, divided into three groups: Group I (4–6 years), Group II (7–9 years), and Group III (10–12 years). Each child completed the NCT three times, and the time taken, scores, errors, and pattern (vertical, horizontal, or random) were recorded. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Chi-square tests (P < 0.05). Results: Children in Group III completed the test in the least time (231.9 s, ≈4 min) and achieved higher average scores (119.3) compared to Group I (604.3 s, ≈10 min; 109 points). The differences in time, score, and pattern were statistically significant among age groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Cognitive efficiency improves with age, as older children complete the NCT faster and with greater accuracy. These normative data may serve as baseline references for evaluating recovery following nitrous oxide conscious sedation.
Background: Sella Turcica is a key landmark for determining craniofacial growth and skeletal malocclusions. Any changes in morphology might have a consequence leading to an orthodontic outcome. Aim: This study aimed to explore the connection between sella turcica interclinoid distances, bridging, and various skeletal malocclusions using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: CBCT scans from 150 adults were retrospectively analyzed. Anterior and posterior interclinoid distances, maxillomandibular dimensions, and Cephalometric angles: Sella-Nasion-A point (SNA), Sella-Nasion-B point (SNB), and A point-Nasion-B point (ANB) angles to determine skeletal classification, clinoid bridging, and sella turcica flattening were evaluated. Results: The posterior clinoid distance was significantly larger in males, measuring 12.10 mm compared to 11.26 mm (P = 0.029). All skeletal dimensions were also larger in males (P < 0.05). A weak link was found between interclinoid distances and malocclusion type. Mandibular width was significantly greater in Class III malocclusions, averaging 50.85 mm (P < 0.05). Clinoid bridging occurred in 2.6% of cases (4/150), and none were bilateral. One instance of sella turcica flattening was discovered in a patient with severe facial asymmetry and Class III malocclusion. CBCT provides an accurate three-dimensional assessment of sella turcica morphology. Conclusion: While there is a notable gender difference, the association between interclinoid distances and malocclusions appears weak. Sella turcica bridging is rare in this study, and it seems to have little impact on orthodontic results.
Introduction: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease initiated by microbial dysbiosis and perpetuated by an aberrant host immune response, resulting in the progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues. Neutrophils are essential for periodontal homeostasis; however, their dysregulated activation contributes to excessive inflammation and tissue damage. This narrative review aimed to critically evaluate the role of rat sarcoma virus gene-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (RAC) genes, particularly RAC1 and RAC2, in neutrophil-mediated periodontal pathogenesis. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Studies exploring the molecular, cellular, and experimental roles of RAC1 and RAC2 in immune regulation, neutrophil function, oxidative stress, and periodontal disease progression were included and critically analyzed. Results: Changes in RAC1 and RAC2 activity were linked to overactive neutrophils, showing increased movement, higher reactive oxygen species production, and continuous release of inflammatory mediators. This heightened neutrophil response was associated with increased osteoclast activity and greater alveolar bone loss. Discussion: Collectively, altered RAC signaling plays a key role in neutrophil-mediated periodontal inflammation and tissue destruction. RAC1 and RAC2 exhibit both protective and pathogenic effects, depending on the context and duration of activation. Understanding this balance may help identify novel host-modulatory therapeutic targets and enable the development of RAC-based biomarkers for improved periodontal diagnosis and management.
Introduction: While palliative care has traditionally focused on cancer patients, it is now increasingly recognized as crucial for a variety of complex non-malignant diseases, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, heart failure, renal failure, cirrhosis, Human immunodeficiency virus, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative disorders. As these progressive conditions intensify symptom burden and psychosocial strain, the need for holistic care-including symptom optimization, emotional support, shared decision-making, and integrated interdisciplinary management-becomes essential Methods; An electronic search was done in such databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using the key words Palliative care, non-cancerous patients, chronic illness, quality of life, symptom management, supportive care. The search involved the articles published between November 2005 to December 2024. Results: 17 articles were taken into the review. The results indicate that palliative care incorporates symptom management, psychosocial counseling, feeding support, and coordinated interdisciplinary collaboration between the healthcare providers to enhance comfort and quality of life. Discussion: Despite differences in the progression of the disease, these chronic diseases present similar palliative care requirements, including prompt symptom control, psychosocial assistance, and oral hygiene. Early integration of palliative care helps reduce suffering and preserve dignity, as well as supporting families in the decision-making process despite the persistence of problems of late referral and ignorance.
Background: YouTube™ is increasingly used by caregivers as a source of pediatric health information. However, the quality and reliability of its content, particularly on infant oral health and anticipatory guidance, remain unclear. Aim: To evaluate the reliability and educational quality of YouTube™ videos related to infant oral health and anticipatory guidance using the modified DISCERN tool and Global Quality Score (GQS). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using YouTube™ search terms: “infant oral health,” “anticipatory guidance for infants,” and “pediatric dentistry.” Videos in English, ≤15 min, and uploaded after January 2016 were included. Of the 250 videos screened, 50 met the inclusion criteria. Descriptive data (duration, views, likes, comments) were collected. Two calibrated pediatric dentists assessed video reliability and quality using the modified DISCERN index and GQS. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v24 with nonparametric tests and Spearman’s correlation. Results: Of the 50 videos analyzed, 94% were uploaded by professionals. The mean GQS was 2.06 ± 0.84, and the mean DISCERN score was 1.66 ± 1.21. Clinician explanation videos scored higher on DISCERN, while real procedure videos had marginally higher GQS. No significant correlation was found between GQS and DISCERN scores (P > 0.05). Conclusion: YouTube videos on infant oral health and anticipatory guidance demonstrate low-to-moderate reliability and educational quality. Dental professionals should take an active role in creating high-quality, evidence-based content for digital platforms.
Introduction: Accurate diagnosis in oral pathology relies on the integration of patient history and radiographic interpretation. This review summarizes classic radiological signs that are pathognomonic for specific diseases. Methods: A PubMed search was independently conducted by two reviewers to identify articles published between 2005 and 2019 describing classic radiological signs in oral and maxillofacial pathology. Results: Twenty-six entities were identified and organized into a decision tree based on characteristic radiographic appearances. Discussion: Radiographic interpretation remains central to diagnostic precision in oral and maxillofacial pathology. The proposed decision tree serves as a practical aid for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning. However, given the subjectivity and overlap of radiographic features, integration with clinical findings, patient history, and histopathological confirmation is essential. Dental radiographs thus remain valuable tools for helping students and clinicians correlate imaging patterns with specific diseases for accurate diagnosis and management.
Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has become an essential part of forensic anthropology. Severely fractured and damaged bones can be recreated from computed tomography/laser scans as accurate models. These recreated models can be used by forensic anthropologist for studying the complexity of skeletal details, teaching, and in legal cases. Methods: We reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2024 by searching PubMed, Science Direct, and major forensic science journals, mainly focusing on recent research. Only studies related to 3D printing or scanning of human skeletal remains for reconstruction, trauma interpretation, identification, or courtroom use were included. Imaging methods, printing accuracy, forensic value, ethical considerations, and potential sources of bias were considered when screening and assessing the eligible studies. Results: Most of the studies reported that printed skeletal models had <1-mm measurement differences and were thus regarded as sufficient for morphometry, trauma assessment, and facial reconstruction. The teaching programs and legal presentations where physical models were used were also more clearly communicated and better understood. Discussion: The evidence reviewed indicates that 3D printing enhances reproducibility and reinforces forensic interpretation through the provision of safe, accurate, and tangible models. Ethical responsibility and standardized protocols ensure the reliability and proper handling of data for legal acceptance.
Background: The prevalence of fluorosis of the permanent teeth has increased during the past few decades in India. However, primary-tooth fluorosis has been largely overlooked because it is often difficult to recognize. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental fluorosis in primary teeth among 4–12-year-old preschool and school children in endemic fluoride areas of Bhavnagar district. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in Bhavnagar district to assess the prevalence of dental fluorosis in primary dentition among 1500 school children in the age group of 6–12 years. Data collection included estimation of fluoride in the drinking water supply and measurement of dental fluorosis in school children. Results: The prevalence of Dental Fluorosis among the total population of 1500 children was found to be 26.3%; only 395 were diagnosed with dental fluorosis. Of these, 194 (49.12%) were males with fluorosis and 201 (50.88%) were females with fluorosis. Age groups were grouped to perform a Chi-square test. The results show no significant association between genders (>0.05*). Conclusion: In the present study, mild-to-moderate forms of dental fluorosis are found to be prevalent in a primary dentition.
Introduction: Dentistry is presently witnessing a digital expansion, driven by continuous technological progress and the amalgamation of artificial intelligence (AI). Human–AI alliance is attesting to be a treasured resource in dentistry, with tools such as Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT) delivering innovative natural language skills into practice. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of ChatGPT’s potential applications in the dental field, critically examine its accuracy, ethical and privacy concerns, and offer recommendations for practitioners, educators and researchers. Method: A literature review was performed using databases such as PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE, employing keywords such as “ChatGPT in dentistry” and “Large, Language Models”. Discussion: For dental students and practitioners, ChatGPT can be a powerful educational and case-guidance tool offering fast access to information and improved understanding. However, its usefulness is limited by potential inaccuracies, hallucinations, and biases that could affect clinical decisions, as well as concerns around data privacy and lack of full contextual awareness, making human oversight critical. Conclusion: Conversational AI isn’t going anywhere — in fact, it stands to become even more powerful through further training and optimization. Overlooking its potential in health care would be irrational, given its ability to drive substantial improvements in the field.
