Patient perceptions of artificial intelligence in dental imaging diagnostics: a multicentre survey

To evaluate patients' perceptions of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in dental imaging diagnostics across 6 centres worldwide, hereby named according to their respective cities: Ribeirão Preto (Brazil), Aarhus (Denmark), Lyon (France), Tromsø (Norway), Porto (Portugal), Louisville (USA).

A survey was administered at each centre, focusing on patient attitudes and beliefs regarding AI in dental imaging diagnostics. The survey comprised 16 statements rated on a Likert scale, patient characteristics, and an optional comment section. Inter-centre differences were analysed using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, and correlation analyses were performed between participant characteristics and their perceptions of AI.

A total of 2,581 responses were collected. Most participants expressed positive perceptions of AI as a complementary diagnostic tool, rather than a replacement for human dentists. Key concerns included the need for human oversight, data privacy, and potential cost increases. Differences were observed between centres, with participants from Ribeirão Preto being more likely to accept AI replacing dentists, whereas those from Aarhus and Tromsø expressed greater scepticism about AI's diagnostic capabilities. Although higher levels of education and knowledge about AI correlated with more optimistic perspectives about AI's diagnostic capabilities, they were also associated with an increased preference for human supervision.

Overall, patients favour the use of AI in dental imaging as an auxiliary diagnostic tool, with human supervision remaining essential. Cultural and demographic factors significantly influence perceptions.

The findings highlight the need for tailored communication strategies to address patient concerns if AI is integrated into dental care.