Neural networks: a new technique for development of decision support systems in dentistry

Objectives: To outline the key concepts of neural network based systems and to evaluate the potential applications of such systems in dentistry. Data sources: Published work on neural networks. Conclusions: Neural networks may initally seem complex and computer intensive, but actually integrate well with a clinical environment. Neural network expert systems may be trained with only clinical data and as such can be used where ‘rule based’ decision making is not possible. This is the case in many clinical situations. Neural networks may therefore become important decision making tools within dentistry and have applications both in improving clinical care and in maximizing the cost benefit of care.