Performance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Models Designed for Application in Pediatric Dentistry—A Systematic Review

Abstract

Oral diseases are the most prevalent chronic childhood diseases, presenting as a major public health issue affecting children of all ages in the developing and developed countries. Early detection and control of these diseases is very crucial for a child’s oral health and general wellbeing. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the performance of artificial intelligence models designed for application in pediatric dentistry. A systematic search of the literature was conducted using different electronic databases, primarily (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane) and secondarily (Google Scholar and the Saudi Digital Library) for studies published from 1 January 2000, until 20 July 2022, related to the research topic. The quality of the twenty articles that satisfied the eligibility criteria were critically analyzed based on the QUADAS-2 guidelines. Artificial intelligence models have been utilized for the detection of plaque on primary teeth, prediction of children’s oral health status (OHS) and treatment needs (TN); detection, classification and prediction of dental caries; detection and categorization of fissure sealants; determination of the chronological age; determination of the impact of oral health on adolescent’s quality of life; automated detection and charting of teeth; and automated detection and classification of mesiodens and supernumerary teeth in primary or mixed dentition. Artificial intelligence has been widely applied in pediatric dentistry in order to help less-experienced clinicians in making more accurate diagnoses. These models are very efficient in identifying and categorizing children into various risk groups at the individual and community levels. They also aid in developing preventive strategies, including designing oral hygiene practices and adopting healthy eating habits for individuals.