ChatGPT and Dentistry

If you have not heard of ChatGPT and its features this may go completely over your head. But if you have some inclination as to how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning works this may be very interesting for you.

As a large language model trained by OpenAI, ChatGPT has the ability to generate human-like text based on the input it receives. This technology has the potential to be a valuable tool for dentists and other healthcare professionals in a variety of ways. For example, ChatGPT could be used to quickly and accurately generate patient information forms or other paperwork, freeing up time for dentists to focus on providing high-quality care to their patients. It could also be used to provide information to patients about their dental health and treatment options, helping to educate and empower them to make informed decisions about their care. In this blog, we will explore these and other potential uses of ChatGPT in dentistry, and how this technology could help to improve the quality of care and the patient experience in the dental field.

All of that second paragraph was composed by ChatGPT when asked, by me, to “Compose an intro script for a blog on why chatgpt can be helpful to dentistry”….I would have liked to claim that second paragraph as my own writing, but I think the bot has me beat.

When asked another simple question about dentistry-“what is a cavity?” ChatGPT responds with: A cavity is a hole that forms in a tooth as a result of tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. Over time, the acid can eat away at the enamel, forming a small hole or “cavity” in the tooth. Cavities can cause pain, sensitivity, and infection if left untreated. They are one of the most common dental problems and can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. And I don’t think I could have summed up the definition of a cavity any better than that.

This technology could help bridge the gap in patient-doctor communication when there might be some confusion on treatment options. Dentists can use this technology to help triage patients and get accurate medical histories. As I am reading what I just wrote I realize that ChatGPT has already stated this in its work above.

So I will leave one final question up to ChatGPT that dentists probably receive a lot: “What are my options for replacing a missing tooth”

• “There are several options for replacing a missing tooth, including:
  • Dental implants: This is a surgical procedure in which a titanium screw is placed in the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root. An artificial tooth is then attached to the implant, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth.
  • Bridges: A bridge is a dental appliance that consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, that are supported by dental crowns on either side. The crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth, and the pontics are then attached to the crowns, filling the gap left by the missing tooth.
  • Partial dentures: These are removable appliances that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Partial dentures consist of artificial teeth that are attached to a plastic or metal base that fits over the remaining natural teeth.
  • Complete dentures: These are full sets of artificial teeth that are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Complete dentures are removable and are held in place by suction or a dental adhesive.”

Incredible technology and we are probably only skimming the surface of what this stuff can offer to the world, let alone dentistry.