Eyes on the future: Navigating dentistry\'s revolution with eye tracking technology

Abstract

This comprehensive review delves into the transformative impact of eye tracking technology on the field of dentistry. Eye tracking, originally developed for psychological research, has evolved to become a powerful tool with applications spanning diagnostics, treatment planning, prosthodontics, and dental education. The technology's ability to monitor and analyze visual attention patterns during image interpretation has resulted in improved diagnostic accuracy, offering practitioners valuable insights to enhance their decision-making processes. In prosthodontics and restorative dentistry, eye tracking contributes to the refinement of designs and procedural precision, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional efficacy. The review highlights how this technology extends its benefits to dental education, providing valuable feedback for students and aiding in continuous professional development. Simulation-based learning, enriched by eye tracking insights, enhances training modules, ensuring that dental professionals develop and maintain essential skills.The myriad benefits of eye tracking technology also encompass enhanced patient experiences and improved communication within dental settings. By analyzing practitioners' gaze patterns during patient interactions, the technology facilitates better understanding of non-verbal cues, ultimately fostering positive patient-dentist relationships. However, the review acknowledges challenges such as technical complexities, ethical considerations, and integration hurdles. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for widespread adoption and realization of eye tracking's full potential in dentistry. Looking ahead, the review suggests that collaborative efforts, emerging technologies, and ongoing research will further propel the integration of eye tracking into routine dental practice, fostering a future characterized by precision, efficiency, and personalized patient care.