Merle Retzlaff, Hannes Hollborn, Maisa Omara, Oliver Schierz
Administrative tasks substantially limit the time available for direct patient care in dentistry. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) can reduce administrative workload and improve practice efficiency, however its integration into routine dental practice remains limited. Existing research often focuses on specific AI applications or surveying digitally proficient practitioners, leaving practices with lower levels of digitalization underrepresented. This exploratory study establishes a baseline assessment of digitalization and AI readiness in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. German dental practices with varying degrees of digital maturity were included to assess existing digital infrastructure, current and intended AI use, and perceived barriers to adoption. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among all dental practice owners in the German federal state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The exploratory survey assessed digital infrastructure, AI use, and perceived barriers. The data was analysed descriptively. A total of 163 dental practice owners participated, including a substantial proportion from rural regions (55%). Most practices reported exclusively digital patient records and appointment management, while the use of advanced digital tools varied. A minority had already implemented AI applications, which included support for administrative and diagnostic tasks, documentation, and radiographic evaluation. The most frequent reported barriers to AI adoption were perceived additional costs, concerns about increased workload, and limited familiarity with AI applications. AI adoption in dental practices in a low-density region remains limited, with practitioners favouring tools that reduce administrative workload. While digital infrastructure is increasingly available, barriers such as financial risk, implementation effort, and limited familiarity persist.