Exploring the Role of ChatGPT in Supporting Diagnostic Decision-Making in Dentistry: A Mixed-Methods Comparative Study

Objective This study evaluated ChatGPT’s effectiveness in dental diagnostics, assessing its accuracy, limitations, and potential role as a clinical support tool. Methods A mixed-method comparative study was conducted using clinical case scenarios sourced from PubMed literature to compare participant diagnoses with ChatGPT-generated responses. Data were collected through surveys and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and t-tests, and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results A total of 98 participants (40 interns, 40 general practitioners, 14 specialists, and 4 consultants) completed the survey, and 12 participated in semi-structured interviews. ChatGPT demonstrated an overall diagnostic agreement of 67.3% with participants, with the highest discrepancies observed in endodontics (52%) and paediatric dentistry (48%). A Significant association was found between experience level and diagnostic agreement (χ²(3) = 7.89, p = 0.048); more experienced participants had higher agreement (t(96) = 2.45, p = 0.016). Qualitative Analysis identified three main themes: Diagnostic Accuracy – ChatGPT performed well for common conditions but struggled with complex cases requiring radiographic and contextual interpretation. Usefulness as a Support Tool – Interns and general practitioners found it helpful for preliminary diagnosis, while specialists remained skeptical. Limitations in Clinical Decision-Making – AI lacked patient-specific insights, behavioral considerations, and clinical reasoning. Conclusion ChatGPT showed potential as a diagnostic aid in dentistry but was limited in handling complex cases. It may be useful as a supplementary tool for interns and general practitioners, but clinical expertise remains essential. Future research should focus on enhancing AI’s diagnostic capabilities, integrating patient-specific data, and refining its application in specialized dental fields.