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Perceptions of portable dentistry in Asia using machine learning models.
Ayesha Fahim1,2, Mohammad Khursheed Alam3,4,5, Khaloud Tariq6
1Islamic International Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan. ayeshafahim.af@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|November 18, 2025
Summary
Portable dentistry can improve healthcare access for mobility-impaired individuals in Asia. Machine learning models predict significant demand and acceptance, highlighting the need for targeted implementation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare accessibility
- Dental public health
- Health informatics
Background:
- Limited mobility poses significant barriers to healthcare access, especially in developing Asian countries.
- Portable dentistry offers a home-based solution to deliver essential dental services to underserved populations.
- Understanding patient and dentist perceptions is crucial for the successful implementation of portable dentistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient and dentist perceptions of portable dentistry's feasibility and acceptability.
- To utilize machine learning models for predicting the regional need and willingness for portable dentistry services.
- To identify key factors influencing the acceptance of portable dentistry.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, multi-country study involving 1,550 patients and 1,320 dentists across five Asian nations.
- Data collection via validated online and in-person questionnaires.
- Application of machine learning models (Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, KNN, SVM, Logistic Regression) for predictive analysis and evaluation using accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and ROC-AUC metrics.
Main Results:
- A significant need for portable dentistry was reported, with 76% of patients and 74% of dentists expressing interest.
- Random Forest model demonstrated high predictive accuracy (up to 97.10% for patients, 88.17% for dentists).
- Demographics, professional experience, and perceived demand were key predictors of acceptance; qualitative insights revealed benefits like improved access and personalized care, alongside challenges like equipment limitations.
Conclusions:
- Substantial demand for portable dentistry exists in Asia, validated by predictive modeling and qualitative data.
- Portable dentistry has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access and address disparities for underserved populations.
- Recommendations include targeted awareness campaigns, professional training, telehealth integration, and economic viability assessments for sustainable implementation.
