Oral Health Analytics
& Informatics Unit

The future challenges for oral health research lie in the discovery and implementation of context-dependent AI solutions, the availability of training and development of new programs related to AI, and the development of augmented intelligence approaches to maintain expertise among oral health professionals. To meet these challenges, the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry established an Oral Health Analytics & Informatics Unit (OHAI) to train and develop the researchers and learners needed for the next generation of oral health professionals.

The OHAI bridges the gap between AI research, AI literacy and the development of AI and digital tools in oral health.

Purpose

The Oral Health Analytics & Informatics unit has five primary objectives:

1. Facilitate and promote a new research direction for incorporating artificial intelligence in oral health research.
2. Develop new training opportunities through CDE, interdisciplinary courses, community of practice, and formal course-based graduate programs to provide opportunities for oral health professionals, students, and researchers.
3. Develop a community support program as a revenue generation center, to provide service related to analytics consulting for dental practices wishing to undergo a data-driven chart audit for QI.
4. Provide expertise, resources, and consultation for oral health researchers and practitioners wishing to pursue data-driven or machine-learning research.
5. Building a community of practice to share lessons learned and QI tips among dental clinics to improve Faculty outreach, community engagement, and advancement opportunities.

Activity Areas

Research

Catalyze collaborative research and enhance research capacity to promote the use of AI, clinical data mining studies, QI studies and development of new methods.

Training

Develop capacity, training and experience in conducting analytics, methodological, and intelligent approaches.

Community Support

Generate stipend and experience opportunities for students, practical solutions for dental practices requiring data-related improvements, with mutual benefits.