AI marks a revolution in dentistryAI marks a revolution in dentistry

The field of dentistry has seen a digital revolution, moving from archaic procedures and metal braces to a technologically driven digital landscape. One of the examples of this transformation is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into oral visualisation technology.

Oral visualisation technology has seen many advances through the years. From the initial development of X-ray technology, which provided the first inside look at dental structures, the industry has now moved to the era of 3D imaging. Today, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) allows for detailed 3D imaging, offering unparalleled diagnostic accuracy. Intraoral scanners have improved treatment planning by capturing highly accurate, detailed 3D images of the oral cavity, as well as helping with patient education and prevention.

The integration of AI into healthcare has led to a cascade of possibilities. According to PwC, in the Middle East, AI is predicted to yield an economic impact of up to US$320 billion by 2030.

Related: Advanced technologies and data are key to driving transformation of healthcare

In line with the private sector’s efforts to integrate AI into the fabric of business and technology, the UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 includes eight strategic objectives, a set of initiatives, along with several initiatives aimed at employing artificial intelligence in vital areas such as education, healthcare, government services and the community well-being.

Amid this landscape of opportunities, market players are making strides to lead the healthcare industry forward. At Align Technology, for example, we have been working to reimagine orthodontic treatment by combining AI with advanced oral visualisation technologies to deliver a transformative experience for doctors and their patients.

At the core of Align Technology's innovations is the Invisalign® System, a fully digitised platform for creating personalised treatment plans. The Invisalign® System uses advanced diagnostic tools, as well as predictive AI, to help doctors deliver exceptional clinical outcomes.

Integrating the iTero™ scanner within the treatment planning workflow can significantly enhance the patient experience. This technology can help reduce chair times for patients, minimises discomfort compared to physical impressions, and offers visual treatment roadmaps to enhance patient education and the overall treatment experience., 

Align Technology’s new X-Ray Insights is the latest technology within the Align Digital Platform™,  an integrated suite of unique, proprietary technologies and services delivered as a seamless, end-to-end solution for patients and consumers, orthodontists and GP dentists, and lab/partners. X-Ray Insights is powered by AI algorithms to evaluate dental radiographic images for caries, calculus, periapical radiolucency, and bone loss. X-Ray Insights offers doctors the flexibility to identify and visualise these conditions chairside, which helps elevate patient communication and increase dental treatment acceptance.

Related: Moving radiology into the age of artificial intelligence

AI capabilities can span the entire orthodontic journey, from machine learning algorithms for early diagnosis of oral diseases to AI-empowered dental radiography and predictive analytics for treatment planning. Statistics reveal the real-world impact of Align Technology's AI-driven approach. Over 16.4 million people, including more than 4.3 million teens, have used Invisalign clear aligners to transform their smiles.

When it comes to prediction and precision, the Invisalign Outcome Simulator Pro, with in-face visualisation, has completely transformed the consultation process, enabling doctors to show patients their potential new smile after Invisalign treatment, using in-face visualisation and/or 3D dentition view, all done chairside in minutes. Invisalign Outcome Simulator Pro expands Align’s existing Invisalign Outcome Simulator technology and adds the benefits of the company’s ClinCheck “In-Face” Visualisation tool that combines a photo of a patient’s face with their 3D treatment simulation, creating a truly personalised view of how their new smile could look.

For orthodontists, the integration of AI presents multiple benefits, and the transformative power of AI and oral visualisation technology extends beyond the treatment room. It is revamping orthodontic clinic operations, streamlining processes, and fostering new ways to engage patients. In an era where efficiency and patient satisfaction are essential, these advancements are helping clinics deliver outstanding service.

The story of Align Technology innovations is an example of how AI can be leveraged to develop digital solutions for doctors to enhance patient experiences and deliver superior results.

References available on request.

Angelo Maura is the General Manager Middle East, Align Technology.

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