Integrating generative artificial intelligence in clinical dentistry : enhancing diagnosis, treatment planning, and procedural precision through advanced knowledge representation and reasoning

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is poised to transform clinical dentistry by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalizing treatment planning, and improving procedural precision. This study integrates logic programming and entropy within knowledge representation and reasoning to generate hypotheses, quantify uncertainty, and support clinical decisions. A six-month longitudinal questionnaire was administered to 127 dentists, of whom 119 provided valid responses across four dimensions: current use and knowledge (CUKD), potential applications (PAD), future perspectives (FPD), and challenges and barriers (CBD). Responses, analyzed with both classical statistics and entropy-based measures, revealed significant differences among dimensions (𝘱 < 0.01, η2 = 0.14). CUKD, PAD, and FPD all increased steadily over time (baseline means 2.32, 3.06, and 3.27; rising to 3.75, 4.51, and 4.71, respectively), while CBD remained more variable (1.87–3.87). The overall entropic state declined from 0.43 to 0.31 (p = 0.018), reflecting reduced uncertainty. Statistical and entropy-derived trends converged, suggesting growing professional clarity and cautious acceptance of GAI. These findings indicate that, despite persistent concerns, GAI holds promise for advancing adaptive and evidence-driven dental practice.