Using Data Mining to Investigate Iraqi Digital Dentistry Software: Pilot Study

Abstract

Digital dentistry means using digital technology in dentistry. This pilot study investigates the state of digital dentistry in Iraq and how to increase the usage of digital dentistry by using a text mining method within thematic analysis. The study consists of three steps: dataset collection (a questionnaire was sent to dentists, academic dentists, dental students, and practitioners working in Baghdad). Data processing using thermal analysis for feedback. The period of the study was four months. 120 responses have been collected. K-means cluster (k=3) as a data mining algorithm used within the concept of thematic analysis to automate the process of feedback analysis. The study demonstrated that about 60% of Iraqi dentists did not use any digital dentistry devices (nearly 25% of them used a CBCT device, while 12% used an intraoral scanner, and 5% used a 3D printer). Approximately 20% of Iraqi dentists use dentistry software. The findings revealed that digital dentistry is underutilized in Iraq, with limited applications at the governmental level and minimal use in the private sector. The high costs, the complexity of digital technologies, and the lack of training were identified as significant barriers to adoption.

Keywords

• CAD/CAM
• Digital dentistry
• Digital dentistry software
• K-means cluster
• Open-source software
• Thematic analysis