Artificial Intelligence in Prosthodontic Diagnostics and Digital Smile Design: Opportunities, Limitations and Clinical Implications

Background Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into prosthodontic digital workflows, offering opportunities to improve diagnostic accuracy, esthetic planning, and patient communication. This review evaluated current AI applications in prosthodontic diagnostics and digital smile design, focusing on clinical utility, limitations, and future implications. Methods A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published between 2023 and 2026. The final literature search was conducted on 31 July 2026. Studies investigating AI applications in facial landmark detection, smile analysis, virtual simulation, tooth morphology assessment, shade analysis, occlusal evaluation, and esthetic prediction were reviewed. Results AI-based systems demonstrated promising performance in facial analysis, automated landmark identification, smile assessment, and virtual treatment simulation. Deep learning models showed potential to improve workflow efficiency and enhance patient understanding through realistic digital visualization. However, limitations included reliance on two-dimensional datasets, insufficient demographic diversity, inconsistent aesthetic parameters, limited clinical validation, and concerns about privacy and algorithmic transparency. Conclusion AI offers significant opportunities to improve prosthodontic diagnostics and digital smile design, but should currently be considered a supportive clinical tool rather than an autonomous decision-maker. Future studies should prioritize three-dimensional dynamic analysis, standardized evaluation criteria, and prospective clinical validation.