AI-Powered Revolution in Dental Material Design A Mini-Review

Abstract

The development of dental materials is transitioning from traditional, empirical trial-and-error methods to a more efficient, data-driven paradigm powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This review summarizes the impact of AI and Machine Learning (ML) on the design, prediction, and discovery of novel dental materials. A primary application is the use of ML models to accurately predict the mechanical, physical, and biocompatible properties of new material formulations, such as composites and ceramics, based on their composition. This predictive power enables the rapid in silico screening and optimization of materials. Furthermore, advanced generative AI models facilitate "inverse design," proposing novel compositions to meet specific, predefined performance criteria. While the primary challenge remains the need for large, high-quality datasets, AI is fundamentally accelerating the innovation cycle. It is poised to become an indispensable tool for engineering the next generation of safer, more durable, and effective dental materials.