Dental Impressions: Evidence-Based Clinical Decision-Making Strategies in the Context of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Materials and Methods: This paper approaches a cross-sectional study that used a structured online questionnaire with 16 items, distributed to dentists in the Oltenia region of Romania along with a bibliometric section on Conceptual and Cognitive Frameworks for Clinical Decision-Making in Digital Dentistry and the role of Artificial Intelligence. The empirical study collected demographic data and assessed the use of conventional and digital impression techniques, perceived advantages and limitations, professional satisfaction and attitudes towards future technological integration. Statistical analyses explored the associations between clinician characteristics, technology use and decision-making preferences. Results: Digital impression techniques were accepted, especially among urban dentists aged 36 to 45. Their use was associated with greater clinical accuracy, improved patient comfort, and significant professional satisfaction. Experience with digital technologies significantly influenced physicians’ willingness to adopt and recommend digital workflows, highlighting the role of human-technology interaction in clinical decision-making. Conclusions: Digital impressions are key components of emerging dental workflows, supported by artificial intelligence, improving decision-making and practice efficiency. Conventional impression techniques remain essential in certain clinical contexts due to their proven reliability.