Artificial neural networks development in prosthodontics - a systematic mapping review

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to systematically categorize the available literature and offer a comprehensive overview of artificial neural network (ANN) prediction models in prosthodontics. Specifically, the present research introduces a systematic analysis of ANN aims, data, architectures, evaluation metrics, and limitations in prosthodontics.

Data: The review included articles published until June 2024. The search terms included "prosthodontics" (and related MeSH terms), "neural networks", and "deep learning". Out of 597 identified articles, 70 reports remained after deduplication and screening (2007-2024). Of these, 33 % were from 2023. Implant prosthodontics was the focus in approximately 29 % of reports, and non-implant prosthodontics in 71 %.

Sources: Data were collected through electronic searches of PubMed MedLine, PubMed Central, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases, along with manual searches in specific journals.

Study selection: This study focused on English-language research articles and conference proceedings detailing the development and implementation of ANN prediction models specifically designed for prosthodontics.

Conclusions: This study shows how ANN models are used in implant and non-implant prosthodontics, with various types of data, architectures, and metrics used for their development and evaluation. It also reveals limitations in ANN development, particularly in the data lifecycle.

Clinical significance: This study equips practitioners with insights, guiding them in optimizing clinical protocols through ANN integration and facilitating informed decision-making on commercially available systems. Additionally, it supports regulatory efforts, smoothing the path for AI integration in dentistry. Moreover, it sets a trajectory for future exploration, identifying untapped tools and research avenues, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and driving innovation in the field.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Deep learning; Dental prosthesis; Implant prosthodontics; Neural networks; Prosthodontics.