Perception of AI among dentists and dental technicians. Questionnaire survey focused on AI implications in prosthodontics

Problems of Dental Medicine 51 DOI: 10.3897/pdm.51.e175791 Research Article Copyright by Ivet Dzhondrova et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC-BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. 1 Perception of AI among dentists and dental technicians. Questionnaire survey focused on AI implications in prosthodontics. Aleksandar Naydenov1, Zornitsa Ivanova2, Ivet Dzhondrova1 1 Department of Prosthetic Dental Medicine, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria 2 Student 3-rd course, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria Corresponding author: Ivet Dzhondrova, Sofia, Bulgaria; Email: [email protected] Received: 22 October 2025  Accepted: 6 November 2025 Published: 17 November 2025 Citation: Naydenov A, Ivanova Z, Dzhondrova I (2025) Perception of AI among dentists and dental technicians. Questionnaire survey focused on AI implications in prosthodontics. Problems of Dental Medicine 51: 1–5. doi: 10.3897/pdm.51.e175791. Abstract Aim: To evaluate the awareness and knowledge of dentists and dental technicians regarding the potential applications, benefits, and limitations of artificial intelligence (AI) in dental medicine, with a specific focus on its utility as a tool in prosthetic dentistry. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional anonymous 15-item online questionnaire surveyed 100 participants (84 clinicians, 16 technicians). Descriptive statistics summarized responses. Results: Reported active uses centered on 3D model generation (78%) and diagnostic image analysis (68%); interest in future use for treatment planning was common (64%). Prior practice use was 28%. Anticipated benefits included higher accuracy (74%), improved workflow efficiency (72%), and shorter treatment time (68%). Limitations were insufficient training (50%), technology dependence (48%), and cost (48%). Most respondents wished to integrate AI tools (70%); few expressed job-loss concerns (8%). Many would adopt AI for tasks typically delegated to technicians if quality were equivalent (60%). Conclusion: Dental professionals recognize AI as a valuable tool for improving workflow, accuracy, and treatment outcomes, particularly in 3D modeling, diagnostics, and treatment planning. While most participants are willing to integrate AI into their practice, knowledge gaps, training needs, and concerns about costs and errors remain. Keywords artificial intelligence, perception, benefits, fears, dentistry Introduction Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving and is now integrated into nearly every digital tool used by dentists and dental technicians. AI refers to systems capable of performing tasks that traditionally require human cognitive abilities. In dental medicine, AI-driven software supports diverse applications such as diagnostics, treatment planning, treatment prognosis, generation of 3D structures (crowns, dentures, inlays, surgical guides), digital impression acquisition through 3D scanners, optimization of 3D printing workflows, and even patient communication tasks such as scheduling appointments or monitoring recalls. Ivet Dzhondrova et al. 2 Problems of Dental Medicine I 2025 I Vol. 51 In restorative dentistry, AI has been described as a useful tool for predicting partial crown restorations that match specific tooth preparations [1]. In prosthetic dentistry, AIbased systems are capable of automating jaw relation registration, characterizing dental arches, and generating accurate occlusal and articulatory designs for crowns and dentures [2]. Moreover, AI integration with CAD/CAM and 3D bioprinting technologies has improved aesthetic outcomes and facilitated the fabrication of complex prosthetic restorations for both hard and soft tissues. By assisting in treatment planning, AI enhances decisionmaking speed and may reduce the likelihood of human error [3]. Recent developments suggest that generative AI may soon be employed to design and prepare custom prosthetic constructions tailored precisely to the patient’s individual anatomy, thereby expanding AI’s potential as a supplemental tool in prosthodontic treatment [4]. The combination of AI and augmented reality (AR) has further enhanced patient experience by allowing digital try-ins of dentures that can be modified until satisfaction before final fabrication [5]. Beyond clinical applications, AI contributes to optimizing dental workflows through automation of administrative and managerial tasks. It can independently organize appointments, manage patient records, and handle billing procedures, allowing dental professionals to adopt a more time-efficient and patient-centered approach [6]. Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants can support effective communication with patients, overcome language barriers, and provide personalized education and reminders for preventive care. Technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and AR also have the potential to reduce dental anxiety [7]. Despite these advantages, the integration of AI into dental practice presents several challenges. Both dentists and dental technicians have expressed concerns regarding the complexity of mastering AI systems, the significant time and training required, and the high costs of implementation. Moreover, while AI is advancing rapidly, it remains far from a flawless substitute for human expertise. Algorithms may yield inaccurate or biased results, leading to uncertainty about accountability in clinical decision-making. Although AI offers valuable assistance in dentistry and education, biological processes remain too complex to be entirely replicated by artificial systems. Therefore, AI cannot replace human judgment, clinical experience, and ethical responsibility [5]. Legal and ethical issues further complicate AI’s clinical integration. The lack of clearly defined medical liability frameworks raises concerns about accountability and safety when AI is involved in decision-making [8, 9]. Secure and responsible use of AI thus requires continuous human oversight to prevent treatment errors. Furthermore, incorporating principles of patient confidentiality, informed consent, and ethical integrity into AI algorithms remains a major challenge. Overall, AI holds great promise for transforming dental patient education, communication, and care delivery through personalized and efficient digital interactions [10]. However, replacing direct, face-to-face communication with AI-mediated interfaces may weaken the interpersonal connection between clinicians and patients, potentially influencing treatment satisfaction. Therefore, comprehensive strategies are needed to integrate AI in ways that enhance—not replace—the human aspects of dental care [11, 12]. Another critical issue involves professional ethics and job security, particularly among dental technicians, who may view AI as a threat to employment stability. A recent survey by Roganović et al. (2023) revealed that skepticism within the dental community is often linked to insufficient education and training on AI, fears of professional replacement, and concerns about inadequate regulatory frameworks [13]. Given these factors, the present study aims to evaluate the awareness, perceptions, and knowledge of dentists and dental technicians regarding the potential applications, benefits, and limitations of AI in dental medicine, with particular emphasis on its utility in prosthetic dentistry. Materials and methods Methods An anonymous and voluntary questionnaire survey was conducted among dental professionals to assess their awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) in dental medicine, with a particular focus on its application in prosthodontics. The study included a total of 100 participants, consisting of dental practitioners and dental technicians. The questionnaire comprised 14 structured questions designed to evaluate participants’ understanding of AI concepts, their familiarity with AI-based tools used in clinical practice, and their opinions regarding the potential benefits, limitations, and ethical implications of AI integration in dentistry. Demographic information such as professional background, years of experience, and workplace type was also collected to analyze potential correlations between respondents’ profiles and their perspectives on AI. The questionary take place between 15.02.2025 - 15.05.2025 and was conducted via online form where all participants rerestarted via their email. Results A total of 100 participants completed the questionnaire, comprising 84 dental practitioners (84%) and 16 dental technicians (16%). Perception of AI Among Dentists and Dental Technicians. Problems of Dental Medicine I 2025 I Vol. 51 3 Regarding professional specialization, the majority were general dental practitioners (66%), followed by professionals in prosthetic dental medicine (14%), dental technicians (10%), orthodontics (4%), implantology (2%), and pediatric dentistry (2%). In terms of professional experience, more than half of the respondents (52%) had less than five years of work experience. Participants with 5 to 10 years of experience represented 12%, those with 10 to 15 years 4%, and those with 15 to 20 years 6%. A total of 26% of respondents reported more than 20 years of professional experience. When asked whether they had ever used AI tools in their dental practice, 72% of participants answered “No”, while 28% indicated that they had already incorporated AIbased technologies into their workflow. When participants were asked in which areas they think AI is currently being applied, the majority identified generation of three-dimensional virtual models required for treatment planning (78%) and image analysis for diagnostic purposes (68%). Other commonly selected applications included treatment planning (60%), automated treatment recommendations (38%), real-time patient monitoring during treatment (34%), communication with patients (38%), and oral hygiene care (14%)(figure 1). Figure 1. In which of the following areas participants think artificial intelligence (AI) is currently being applied When participants were asked whether the use of digital design software makes their work easier, 30% reported that they do not use this type of software. Among those who use such software, 20% indicated that it makes their work easier to some extent, while 25% stated that it makes their work significantly easier. Notably, none of the respondents felt that digital design software did not make their work easier at all (figure 2). D. It makes my work significantly easier C. To some extent В. It does not make my work easier at all A. I do not use this type of software Figure 2. Does the use of digital design software make participant’s work easier When asked in which areas they would consider using AI technology, responses showed a similar pattern but with slightly higher interest across most applications. The most frequently selected option was again generation of three-dimensional virtual models required for treatment planning (74%), followed by image analysis for diagnostic purposes (72%) and treatment planning (64%). Other applications included automated treatment recommendations (46%), real-time patient monitoring during treatment (44%), communication with patients (38%), and oral hygiene care (26%)(figure 3). Figure 3. For which of the following would participants consider using AI technology When asked whether they were aware of AI technology for automated threedimensional design of dental crowns, 30% of participants responded “No”. A larger proportion (46%) answered “Yes, but I am not familiar with its detailed purpose”, indicating general awareness without in-depth knowledge. Meanwhile, 20% of respondents recognized that such AI technology exists but believed it is currently limited to single-tooth restorations only (figure 4). A. No B. Yes, but I am not familiar with its detailed purpose C. Yes, but it is limited to single-tooth restorations only A. Image analysis for diagnostic purposes B. Treatment planning C. Automated treatment recommendations D. Real-time patient monitoring during treatment E. Oral hygiene care F. Generation of three-dimensional virtual models required for treatment planning G. Communication with patients 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 68 60 38 34 14 78 38 A. Image analysis for diagnostic purposes B. Treatment planning C. Automated treatment recommendations D. Real-time patient monitoring during treatment E. Oral hygiene care F. Generation of three-dimensional virtual models required for treatment planning G. Communication with patients 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 72 64 46 44 26 74 38 30 % 50 % 20 % 21 % 31 % 48 % Ivet Dzhondrova et al. 4 Problems of Dental Medicine I 2025 I Vol. 51 Figure 4. Are participants aware of the current existence of AI technology for automated three-dimensional design of dental crowns When participants were asked whether AI technology for three-dimensional modeling of dental crowns would contribute to improving the quality and increasing the quantity of their work, the majority (58%) responded that it would improve both quality and quantity. Meanwhile, 28% believed that it would improve quality but not increase quantity, 8% thought it would increase quantity but not improve quality, and only 6% felt that it would neither improve quality nor increase quantity. When participants were asked about the potential advantages of using AI technologies, the most frequently cited benefit was increased accuracy and precision (74%), followed closely by a more efficient workflow (72%) and reduced treatment time (68%). Over half of the respondents (54%) indicated that AI could contribute to improved patient outcomes, while fewer participants (22%) considered reduction of treatment costs as a potential advantage. In question 11 participants were asked about the potential limitations of using AI technologies and the most commonly cited concern was lack of training to use AI (50%), followed by dependence on the technology (48%) and increased costs (48%). Other notable limitations included limited access to the technology (42%) and the possibility of errors or inaccuracies (36%)(figure 5). Figure 5. Potential limitations of using AI According to the answers of question 12 none of the respondents (0%) believed that AI would have no impact on dental practice. A total of 42% anticipated that AI would have a affecting only certain aspects of dental practice, while the majority (56%) predicted that AI would become an integral part of all aspects of dental practice. The majority of the respondents (70%) wish to integrate AI technologies into their practice indicating strong interest in adopting AI. A smaller proportion (22%) reported being hesitant, while only 6% stated that they would not wish to integrate AI into their work. When participants were asked about the potential impact of AI on their professional roles, the vast majority (90%) indicated no concern that AI technologies might replace them, cause job loss, or significantly reduce their workload, while only 8% expressed such concerns. Interestingly, despite this minimal fear of professional displacement, a majority of respondents (60%) stated that they would be willing to use AI technology to independently perform tasks currently delegated to dental technicians (assuming equal quality), whereas 38% preferred to continue delegating these tasks. Discussion The results of this survey indicate that dental practitioners and dental technicians are generally aware of AI technologies and recognize their potential to enhance clinical practice, particularly in areas such as 3D modeling, diagnostics, and treatment planning. Consistent with previous studies [1–4], participants highlighted improved accuracy, workflow efficiency, and treatment outcomes as key benefits of AI integration. The widespread recognition of AI for generating three-dimensional virtual models and assisting in diagnostic image analysis reflects the current trend of digital transformation in prosthodontics and restorative dentistry [2,5]. Despite the positive attitudes, the survey revealed significant knowledge gaps. Many respondents were only partially familiar with AI technologies or their detailed applications, and concerns regarding training, cost, and the potential for errors were frequently reported. These findings align with prior reports emphasizing the need for targeted education and handson experience to foster confidence in AI tools [8–10]. Interestingly, while most participants did not express fear of professional displacement, a substantial proportion indicated willingness to use AI to perform tasks traditionally delegated to dental technicians, suggesting openness to role expansion and technological collaboration. The survey also underscores the dual nature of AI’s impact on clinical practice. While AI can improve efficiency and decision-making, overreliance on technology may risk diminishing face-to-face patient interaction, potentially affecting patient satisfaction and the clinician-patient relationship [7,9]. As highlighted in the literature, ethical considerations, data privacy, and regulatory frameworks remain crucial for safe and effective AI implementation [8,9]. Overall, these findings suggest that AI is perceived primarily as a supportive tool that can augment, rather than replace, human expertise in dentistry. Successful integration will require comprehensive training, clear guidelines, and continued evaluation of clinical efficacy to ensure that AI contributes to improved patient care without compromising professional judgment or ethical standards. Future studies should explore longitudinal adoption patterns, the impact of AI on treatment outcomes, and the development of educational programs to bridge existing knowledge gaps. A. Limited access to the technology B. Dependence on the technology C. Increased costs D. Possibility of errors or inaccuracies E. Lack of training to use it 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 42 48 48 36 50 Perception of AI Among Dentists and Dental Technicians. Problems of Dental Medicine I 2025 I Vol. 51 5 Conclusion Dental professionals recognize AI as a valuable tool for improving workflow, accuracy, and treatment outcomes, particularly in 3D modeling, diagnostics, and treatment planning. While most participants are willing to integrate AI into their practice, knowledge gaps, training needs, and concerns about costs and errors remain. Overall, AI is seen as a supportive technology rather than a replacement for human expertise, highlighting the importance of education and guidelines to ensure its effective and safe implementation in dental practice. Additional information Funding statement None. Ethical compliance Not applicable. Conflict of interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest and no affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript. Author contributions Conceptualization: A.N – designed the study concept, formulated research questions, and defined study objectives. Methodology: A.N, Z.I – developed the questionnaire, determined inclusion criteria, and planned the survey procedure. Data Collection: A.N, Z.I – conducted the survey, recruited participants, and ensured data completeness and quality. Formal Analysis: I.D– analyzed survey data, calculated descriptive statistics, and interpreted the results. Writing – Original Draft: A.N, Z.I– prepared the initial manuscript, including Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion. Writing – Review & Editing: I.D – critically revised the manuscript for clarity, accuracy, and scientific content. Visualization: I.D– prepared tables, figures, and charts summarizing survey results. Supervision / Project Administration: I.D – provided oversight of the study design, execution, and adherence to ethical guidelines. References 1. Farook, T.H., Ahmed, S., Jamayet, N.B. et al. Computer-aided design and 3dimensional artificial/convolutional neural network for digital partial dental crown synthesis and validation. Sci Rep 2023; 13, 1561 https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-28442-1 2. Revilla-León M, Gómez-Polo M, Vyas S, et al. 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