| The purpose of this study was to identify educators’ perspectives, attitudes, and concerns about
the implementation of AI in dental hygiene education and preparedness for clinical practice. This
study used an exploratory qualitative design with a purposive sample of dental hygiene educators
from the United States (IRB-FY2025-60). Interviews were conducted using an interview guide
via Zoom during the fall semester 2024 and spring semester 2025. Responses were coded and
categorized into themes using the classic analysis strategy. A pilot interview, member checks,
and investigator triangulation were used to establish validity and reliability. Twenty-two dental
hygiene educators participated in the study. The themes identified were Informed, Misgivings,
Resources, Academic Integrity, Implementation, and Professional Assimilation. Additional
studies identifying dental hygiene students’ preferences and understanding of AI and methods for
implementing AI in clinical education to prepare students for practice are needed.
Key words: Artificial Intelligence, Dental Hygiene, Educators, Qualitative Research, Themes |