Artificial intelligence shows promise for interpreting dental X-rays

A deep learning algorithm successfully detects periodontal disease from 2D bitewing radiographs, according to research presented at EuroPerio10, the world's leading congress in periodontology and implant dentistry organized by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP). "Our study shows the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically identify periodontal pathologies that might otherwise be missed," said study author Dr. Burak Yavuz of Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Turkey. "This could reduce radiation exposure by avoiding repeat assessments, prevent the silent progression of periodontal disease, and enable earlier treatment." Previous studies have examined the use of AI to detect caries, root fractures and apical lesions but there is limited research in the field of periodontology. This study evaluated the ability of deep learning, a type of AI, to determine periodontal status in bitewing radiographs.