ResNet‐Transformer deep learning model‐aided detection of dens evaginatus

BACKGROUND: Dens evaginatus is a dental morphological developmental anomaly. Failing to detect it may lead to tubercles fracture and pulpal/periapical disease. Consequently, early detection and intervention of dens evaginatus are significant to preserve vital pulp. AIM: This study aimed to develop a deep learning model to assist dentists in early diagnosing dens evaginatus, thereby supporting early intervention and mitigating the risk of severe consequences. DESIGN: In this study, a deep learning model was developed utilizing panoramic radiograph images sourced from 1410 patients aged 3-16 years, with high-quality annotations to enable the automatic detection of dens evaginatus. Model performance and model's efficacy in aiding dentists were evaluated. RESULTS: The findings indicated that the current deep learning model demonstrated commendable sensitivity (0.8600) and specificity (0.9200), outperforming dentists in detecting dens evaginatus with an F1-score of 0.8866 compared to their average F1-score of 0.8780, indicating that the model could detect dens evaginatus with greater precision. Furthermore, with its support, young dentists heightened their focus on dens evaginatus in tooth germs and achieved improved diagnostic accuracy. CONCLUSION: Based on these results, the integration of deep learning for dens evaginatus detection holds significance and can augment dentists' proficiency in identifying such anomaly.