Precision Oral Health: Potential Applications and Challenges

OBJECTIVES: : This position paper explores the current landscape, potential applications, and key challenges related to precision health in dentistry. In addition, the paper demonstrates how data-driven, patient-centred approaches can be utilized in dentistry to drive continuous quality improvement and inform strategic decision-making.

METHODS: : A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to synthesize ongoing developments in precision oral healthcare. This review encompasses the integration of digital health technologies, emerging standards, and considerations for interoperability in the field of dentistry.

RESULTS: : While precision health is increasingly influencing oral healthcare, the literature showed that its adoption in dentistry trails behind other medical specialties in adopting such approaches. Key priorities for advancing precision health in dentistry include the integration of patients' genetic information, the application of artificial intelligence, and the use of advanced data analytics. Yet, several significant barriers remain, including a lack of standardized data formats, limited interoperability among health information systems, and the need for strong evidence to support the development and implementation of emerging technologies. To overcome these challenges, it will require coordinated efforts and collaboration among dental providers, healthcare professionals, informaticians, and researchers.

CONCLUSION: : Precision oral health holds significant promise for improving patient outcomes through tailored, data-driven interventions. Solutions are needed to address the adoption of technologies, fostering data standards in clinical data, and collaboration across disciplines. Ongoing research and strategic investment in dental informatics are crucial for advancing the integration of precision health principles into routine dental practice.