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The Future of Dentistry: How AI Is Changing Gum Disease Detection

November 15, 2024

Dentist using AI to detect gum disease

Imagine what could happen in the future if dentists could detect issues like cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues before they start! This is quickly becoming a reality thanks to artificial intelligence (AI). Although this breakthrough technology is not available in every dental office, it has the potential to completely change the game for oral health. Read on to see why AI-powered gum disease detection is so exciting and why early detection matters.

How Does AI Detect Gum Disease?

AI can help dentists improve the accuracy of their diagnoses. However, with that being said, the technology isn’t a replacement for your friendly family dentist—just another useful tool at their disposal. 

After running a patient’s information and physical scans like X-rays through advanced software, sophisticated algorithms begin their work. This AI can identify signs of gum disease, like inflammation, bone loss, or changes in gum tissue at its earliest stages! This allows dentists to intervene early, giving patients a better chance of avoiding more serious issues down the road.

Why Is Early Detection of Gum Disease Important?

Catching gum disease early is critical for keeping your oral health intact. When diagnosed and treated early, gum disease is more manageable and less likely to lead to severe issues like tooth loss or jawbone deterioration. So, the earlier it’s found, the easier and more effective treatment becomes. This can mean simpler, non-invasive procedures and a quicker return to healthy smiles.

How Will the Future Look with AI Dentistry?

While not all dental practices offer AI-powered diagnostics just yet, the technology is quickly becoming more accurate and accessible. As it becomes more widespread, patients can look forward to more proactive and personalized care—not less!

Many patients fear that letting “machines” handle their care will lead to taking the human element out of the field. However, AI will never “replace” your dentist, it will only enhance the level of care they can provide.

Even without the power of machine learning, you can still protect your teeth and gums the old-fashioned way! Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene practices, and early treatment when signs of gum issues appear are the key. So, stay in touch with your dentist and keep up with your oral health routine for a brighter, healthier smile!

About the Practice

At Westgate Dental Care, our team is constantly learning to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in dental care. We prioritize early detection and personalized care to keep every patient’s gums and teeth healthy—even without AI assistance. If you’re worried about your gums, call (847) 577-7171 to schedule a gum disease assessment. You can also visit our website to learn more about other treatments and services.