Francesco Guido Mangano
DDS, MSc, PhD, Assoc Prof
I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
ITALY
Session 2 · DAY 1 (Nov. 5, 2026) · 10:45–11:15 CET
Artificial Intelligence and Mixed Reality in Implant Dentistry
Abstract
Two emerging technologies are poised to radically transform the field of implant surgery: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Mixed Reality (MR). AI refers to software or computer systems capable of solving complex problems that traditionally require human intervention and cognition. In dentistry, AI is now widely used for the automated identification and diagnosis of carious lesions, endodontic and cystic pathologies, and periodontal defects on two-dimensional images and radiographs (intraoral or panoramic).
More recently, AI has been applied to the automated detection and segmentation of anatomical structures from three-dimensional radiographic examinations (cone-beam computed tomography, CBCT). These capabilities are made possible by machine learning, through which computers learn from data by recognizing intrinsic statistical patterns and structures.
Today, AI can automatically design dental implant positioning, streamlining and enhancing the digital workflow. Mixed Reality (MR), on the other hand, refers to a technology capable of generating high-definition virtual content and models (holograms) superimposed onto the real environment, thereby enriching and enhancing the user’s perception of reality.
A hologram is a 3D model created through photographic projection. The operator wears a headset with transparent lenses that projects virtual objects into the real world, allowing simultaneous interaction with both the physical and virtual environments. MR is currently fundamental for presenting treatment plans to patients, collaborating remotely with colleagues (dentists and dental technicians), and planning implant surgery.
The ultimate development of these technologies lies in dynamic, holographically guided implant surgery, driven and assisted by AI.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the fundamentals of AI and machine learning and their diagnostic applications in dentistry, on both 2D radiographs and CBCT.
- Describe how AI-driven automated implant planning integrates into the digital workflow.
- Identify the clinical applications of Mixed Reality in treatment presentation, remote collaboration, and holographically guided implant surgery.
Biography
Dr. Francesco Guido Mangano is Associate Professor of Digital Dentistry at Sechenov First State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation. He serves as Editor of the Digital Dentistry Section of the Journal of Dentistry (Elsevier, IF 5.8, citescore 7.8) and Editor-in-Chief of the Digital Dentistry Journal (Elsevier). He is Past President (2024–25) of the Digital Dentistry Society International and Director of the Mangano Digital Academy (MDA).
Author of 170 papers in Scopus-indexed journals, he holds an H-index of 64 (Google Scholar) and 49 (Scopus). He practises privately in Gravedona (Como, Italy), devoting himself exclusively to digital dentistry.