Effects of incorporation of nano-fluorapatite or nano-fluorohydroxyapatite on a resin-modified glass ionomer cement

Compressive strength and fluoride release profile of a glass ionomer cement reinforced with silver-hydroxyapatite-silica hybrid nanoparticles: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to prepare a glass ionomer (GI) cement reinforced with silver-hydroxyapatite-silica (Ag/HA/Si) hybrid nanoparticles and assess its compressive strength and fluoride release profile.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this in vitro, experimental study, 60 cylindrical specimens were fabricated with 4mm diameter and 6mm height in 6 groups (n=10) using BracePaste composite, GC Fuji II LC pure RMGI, and RMGI reinforced with 0.1wt%, 0.5wt%, 1wt%, and 2wt% Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles. The specimens were subjected to compressive force in a universal testing machine to measure their compressive strength (MPa). To assess their fluoride release profile, discs with 3mm diameter and 2mm thickness were fabricated from Fuji II LC pure resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), and RMGI with 0.1wt%, 0.5wt%, 1wt%, and 2wt% hybrid nanoparticles, and the concentration of released fluoride was measured by a digital ion-selective electrode. Data were analysed by ANOVA and Scheffe test (alpha=0.05).

RESULTS

The compressive strength was 114.14MPa for BracePaste composite, and 97.14, 97.84, 100.65, 109.5, and 89.33MPa for GI groups with 0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1% and 2% hybrid nanoparticles, respectively, with no significant difference among them (P=0.665). Addition of 1% (0.21±0.07μg/mL, P=0.029) and 2% (0.45±0.22μg/mL, P=0.000) hybrid nanoparticles to RMGI significantly increased the amount of released fluoride, compared with the control group (0.09±0.03μg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles to RMGI in the tested concentrations had no significant effect on its compressive strength but addition of 1wt% and 2wt% concentrations of Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles increased its fluoride release potential.

Influence of inorganic nanoparticles on dental materials' mechanical properties. A narrative review

Inorganic nanoparticles have been widely incorporated in conventional dental materials to help in improving their properties. The literature has shown that incorporating nanoparticles in dental materials in different specialties could have a positive effect on reinforcing the mechanical properties of those materials; however, there was no consensus on the effectiveness of using nanoparticles in enhancing the mechanical properties of dental materials, due to the variety of the properties of nanoparticles itself and their effect on the mechanical properties. This article attempted to analytically review all the studies that assessed the effect of different types of inorganic nanoparticles on the most commonly used dental materials in dental specialties such as polymethyl methacrylate, glass ionomer cement, resin composite, resin adhesive, orthodontic adhesive, and endodontic sealer. The results had shown that those inorganic nanoparticles demonstrated positive potential in improving those mechanical properties in most of the dental materials studied. That potential was attributed to the ultra-small sizes and unique physical and chemical qualities that those inorganic nanoparticles possess, together with the significant surface area to volume ratio. It was concluded from this comprehensive analysis that while a definitive recommendation cannot be provided due to the variety of nanoparticle types, shapes, and incorporated dental material, the consensus suggests using nanoparticles in low concentrations less than 1% by weight along with a silane coupling agent to minimize agglomeration issues and benefit from their properties.

Effect of Fluorohydroxyapatite on Biological and Physical Properties of MTA Angelus

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the effect of addition of fluorohydroxyapatite (FHI) on biological and physical properties of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) Angelus.

Materials and Methods

In this in vitro, experimental study, nano-FHI powder was first synthesized, and the morphology and chemical structure of particles were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Three groups were evaluated in this study: MTA Angelus, MTA modified with 10% FHA, and MTA modified with 15% FHA. After mixing, the materials were applied to ring molds (10 mm diameter, 1 mm height), and the setting time of the three groups was evaluated according to ISO6876 and ASTMC266-03 with a Gillmore needle. The pH was measured using a pH meter at 24 and 48 hours and 7 days after mixing. The cytotoxicity of the materials was assessed in freshly mixed form and after 1 and 7 days using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay according to ISO10993-5. Data were analyzed by one-way and repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha = 0.05).

Results

The addition of FHA to MTA significantly decreased the initial setting time (P < 0.05) and had no significant effect on cell viability (compared with pure MTA Angelus) at 1 and 7 days. However, modified MTA groups in freshly mixed form showed significantly lower cell viability (P < 0.05). The pH remained alkaline at all time points.

Conclusion

Addition of 15% FHA to MTA Angelus decreased its setting time with no adverse effect on cell viability (except for fresh form) or pH.

Novel Remineralizing and Antibiofilm Low-Shrinkage-Stress Nanocomposites to Inhibit Salivary Biofilms and Protect Tooth Structures

Recurrent caries remain a persistent concern, often linked to microleakage and a lack of bioactivity in contemporary dental composites. Our study aims to address this issue by developing a low-shrinkage-stress nanocomposite with antibiofilm and remineralization capabilities, thus countering the progression of recurrent caries. In the present study, we formulated low-shrinkage-stress nanocomposites by combining triethylene glycol divinylbenzyl ether and urethane dimethacrylate, incorporating dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM), along with nanoparticles of calcium fluoride (nCaF2) and nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP). The biofilm viability, biofilm metabolic activity, lactic acid production, and ion release were evaluated. The novel formulations containing 3% DMADDM exhibited a potent antibiofilm activity, exhibiting a 4-log reduction in the human salivary biofilm CFUs compared to controls (p < 0.001). Additionally, significant reductions were observed in biofilm biomass and lactic acid (p < 0.05). By integrating both 10% NACP and 10% nCaF2 into one formulation, efficient ion release was achieved, yielding concentrations of 3.02 ± 0.21 mmol/L for Ca, 0.5 ± 0.05 mmol/L for P, and 0.37 ± 0.01 mmol/L for F ions. The innovative mixture of DMADDM, NACP, and nCaF2 displayed strong antibiofilm effects on salivary biofilm while concomitantly releasing a significant amount of remineralizing ions. This nanocomposite is a promising dental material with antibiofilm and remineralization capacities, with the potential to reduce polymerization-related microleakage and recurrent caries.

Effect of incorporating silica-hydroxyapatite-silver hybrid nanoparticles into the resin-modified glass ionomer on the adhesive remnant index score and shear bond strength of orthodontic metal brackets: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the effect of addition of silica-hydroxyapatite-silver (Si-HA-Ag) hybrid nanoparticles to light-cure glass ionomer (GI) on shear bond strength (SBS) of metal brackets bonded with this adhesive and the adhesive remnant index (ARI) score.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this in vitro experimental study, 50 sound extracted premolars were assigned to 5 groups (n=10) for orthodontic metal bracket bonding with BracePaste® composite, Fuji ORTHO™ pure resin modified GI (RMGI), and RMGI reinforced with 2wt%, 5wt% and 10wt% Si-HA-Ag nanoparticles. The SBS of brackets was measured by a universal testing machine. Debonded specimens were inspected under a stereomicroscope at×10 magnification to determine the ARI score. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Scheffe test, Chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test (alpha=0.05).

RESULTS

The maximum mean SBS was recorded in BracePaste® composite followed by 2% RMGI, 0% RMGI, 5% RMGI and 10% RMGI. Only the difference between the BracePaste® composite and 10% RMGI was significant in this regard (P=0.006). The groups were not significantly different regarding the ARI scores (P=0.665). All the SBS values were within the clinically acceptable range.

CONCLUSION

Addition of 2wt% and 5wt% Si-HA-Ag hybrid nanoparticles to RMGI as orthodontic adhesive caused no significant change in SBS of orthodontic metal brackets while addition of 10wt% hybrid nanoparticles significantly decreased the SBS. Nonetheless, all the SBS values were within the clinically acceptable range. Addition of hybrid nanoparticles had no significant effect on the ARI score.

Inorganic Compounds as Remineralizing Fillers in Dental Restorative Materials: Narrative Review

Secondary caries is one of the leading causes of resin-based dental restoration failure. It is initiated at the interface of an existing restoration and the restored tooth surface. It is mainly caused by an imbalance between two processes of mineral loss (demineralization) and mineral gain (remineralization). A plethora of evidence has explored incorporating several bioactive compounds into resin-based materials to prevent bacterial biofilm attachment and the onset of the disease. In this review, the most recent advances in the design of remineralizing compounds and their functionalization to different resin-based materials' formulations were overviewed. Inorganic compounds, such as nano-sized amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP), calcium fluoride (CaF₂), bioactive glass (BAG), hydroxyapatite (HA), fluorapatite (FA), and boron nitride (BN), displayed promising results concerning remineralization, and direct and indirect impact on biofilm growth. The effects of these compounds varied based on these compounds' structure, the incorporated amount or percentage, and the intended clinical application. The remineralizing effects were presented as direct effects, such as an increase in the mineral content of the dental tissue, or indirect effects, such as an increase in the pH around the material. In some of the reported investigations, inorganic remineralizing compounds were combined with other bioactive agents, such as quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), to maximize the remineralization outcomes and the antibacterial action against the cariogenic biofilms. The reviewed literature was mainly based on laboratory studies, highlighting the need to shift more toward testing the performance of these remineralizing compounds in clinical settings.

Retention Ability of a Glass Carbomer Pit and Fissure Sealant

Dental sealants are an excellent means to prevent pits and fissure decay. Currently, there are multiple commercially available sealant materials. The purpose of this study was to assess the retention of glass carbomer fissure sealant and the incidence of secondary caries over a period of 24 months in comparison with a resin-based sealant. Materials and Methods: We included 32 children in the study, with ages between six and eight years and an average age of 6.8 years old. For each child, we sealed four permanent molars (totaling 128 teeth). The study group was divided into sub-groups. Sub-group A was represented by 64 first permanent molars which underwent dental sealing procedures with composite resin-based fissure sealant, Helioseal F™, and sub-group B was represented by 64 first permanent molars which underwent dental sealing procedures with glass carbomer cement, GCP Glass Seal™. The sealants were assessed clinically at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Results: The 6-month follow-up evaluation showed no statistically significant differences between the two materials neither regarding sealant retention nor new carious lesions formation (p > 0.05). At the 12-month recall, 57 molars had good retention (89.06%) from sub-group A and 44 molars (68.75%) from sub-group B; there was a statistically significant difference (p = 0.0187) between the two treatment choices only regarding material retention. At the last recall after 2 years, sub-group A had a higher number of molars with perfect sealing (47–73.43%) and 8 molars (12.5%) with new caries lesions and sub-group B had 23 (35.93%) molars with perfect sealing and 15 molars (23.44%) with new caries lesions; there was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001) between the two treatment choices only regarding material retention. Conclusions: The glass carbomer retention is very inferior to the resin-based material. The glass carbomer sealant was effective in preventing new caries development, comparable with the conventional resin-based sealant.

Nitrogen doped titanium dioxide as an aesthetic antimicrobial filler in dental polymers

OBJECTIVE

To develop an aesthetic resin composite using a nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide (NTiO₂) filler that possesses antimicrobial properties against cariogenic bacteria.

METHODS

N-TiO₂ powder was manufactured by calcining commercial TiO₂ with urea. Free radical release from the N-TiO₂ powder under visible light irradiation was analysed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The N-TiO₂ powder was incorporated into a dental resin and the photocatalytic activity assessed using a dye under both visible light and dark conditions. Using XTT assay to measure the cellular metabolic activity, the antibacterial properties of the N-TiO₂ /resin composite discs were tested using Streptococcus mutans.

RESULTS

Doping nitrogen of TiO₂ resulted in a band gap shift towards the visible light spectrum, which enabled the powder to release reactive oxygen species when exposed to visible light. When incorporated into a dental resin, the N-TiO₂/resin composite still demonstrated sustained release of reactive oxygen species, maintaining its photocatalytic activity and showing an antibacterial effect towards Streptococcus mutans under visible light conditions.

SIGNIFICANCE

N-TiO₂ filled resin composite shows great promise as a potential aesthetic resin based adhesive for orthodontic bonding.

In Vitro Assessment of Long-Term Fluoride Ion Release from Nanofluorapatite

The issue concerning the tooth decay is ongoing, therefore the study of materials with potential use in its prevention is crucial. This study aimed to analyze the long-term release of fluoride from synthesized nanofluorapatite in various in vitro environments for its potential use in dental materials. We placed 100 mg samples in 0.9% NaCl or deionized water and incubated them at 37 °C or 22 °C for 12 weeks. F− levels were read at 1, 3, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h, and thereafter weekly. The levels of F− released at specific time intervals, as well as their cumulative values were compared. In a solution of 0.9% NaCl at 22 °C, there were no significant differences in the amount of F− released in the assessed time intervals, while at 37 °C, the highest value was read after 24 h (0.0697 ppm + 0.0006; p < 0.05). In deionized water, the highest amount of F− at 22 °C was read after 4 weeks (0.0776 ppm + 0.0028; p < 0.05), and at 37 °C, it was also the highest after 4 weeks (0.0910 ppm + 0.0156; p < 0.05). Under the same conditions, after 5 weeks the cumulative level of F− released (0.6216 ppm + 0.0085) significantly increased (p < 0.05), when compared to the samples placed in 0.9% NaCl at 37 °C and 22 °C (0.5493 ppm + 0.0321 and 0.5376 ppm + 0.0234, respectively). FAp releases F− for a long period of time in all assessed environments, therefore it is advised to continue testing in vivo models. Due to the probable remineralization effect towards hard tooth tissues, fluorapatite can be used in the prevention and treatment of dental caries and dentin hypersensitivity.

Comparison of Shear Bond Strength of Three Types of Glass Ionomer Cements Containing Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles to Deep and Superficial Dentin

Statement of the Problem

The clinical success of glass ionomer cement (GIC) restorations depends on the strength of its bonding to dentin, yet the bond strength of nanohydroxyapatite (nHAp) added GIC to dentin needs to be investigated.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess if the type of GIC containing nHAp and dentin depth could affect the shear bond strength (SBS).

Materials and Method

In this experimental study, 60 freshly extracted intact third molars were randomly divided into two main groups of flat occlusal dentin with different cuts as superficial (S); just below the dentinoenamel junction (DEJ) and deep (D); 2mm below DEJ. After conditioning with 20% polyacrylic acid, each group were randomly assigned to the tested GIC (n=10) subgroups as (1) Fuji IX Extra+nHAp, (2) Fuji II LC+nHAp and (3) Zirconomer+nHAp. Plastic tubes were placed on the pre-treated surfaces and filled with one of the GIC, then stored in an incubator at 37 oC and 100% humidity for 24hr. The specimens were thermocycled at5/55 oC for 500 cycles and subjected to SBS test using a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). The data analyzed by Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis test (p< 0.05).

Results

The means of SBS of Fuji II LC+nHAp was significantly higher than Fuji IX+nHAp and Zirconomer+nHAp both in superficial and deep dentin (p< 0.05). The means of SBS of Fuji IX Extra+nHAp and Zirconomer+nHAp subgroups in superficial dentin were higher than deep dentin, this differences was statistically significant (p= 0.0001 and p= 0.009, respectively).

Conclusion

It can conclude that SBS was influenced by type of GIC and depth of dentin.

Mechanical properties and water sorption of two experimental glass ionomer cements with hydroxyapatite or calcium fluorapatite formulation

In this study the mechanical behavior and water sorption (Ws) of experimental glass-ionomer-cements (GICs) with hydroxyapatite (HA) or calcium fluorapatite (CFA) prototype formulations were examined. Specimens from two experimental and one commercially available GIC were prepared in three protocols; (1) according to the manufacturer's instructions, (2) with coating and (3) with heat application. The specimens were stored in distilled water or artificial saliva at 37°C for 7- and 30-days. Flexural strength (FS), Vickers hardness (VHN) and Ws of GICs were evaluated. Experimental GICs showed higher FS values than commercial GIC (p<0.001). Higher FS and VHN values were observed when GICs were prepared according to manufacturer's recommendation. FS was affected only by GIC-type (η²=0.027), whereas VHN was affected by GIC-type (η²=0.331), treatment-protocols (η²=0.067), storage-medium (η²=0.100) and increased storage-duration (η²=0.317). The tested parameters did not significantly influence the Ws of all tested GICs (p>0.05). The GICs with HA or CFA formulations might represent a promising approach due to their FS, VHN and Ws characteristics.

Intrapulpal Thermal Changes during Setting Reaction of Glass Carbomer® Using Thermocure Lamp

Objectives. To measure the temperature increase induced during thermocure lamp setting reaction of glass carbomer and to compare it with those induced by visible light curing of a resin-modified glass ionomer and a polyacid-modified composite resin in primary and permanent teeth. Materials and Methods. Nonretentive class I cavities were prepared in extracted primary and permanent molars. Glass carbomer (GC) was placed in the cavity and set at 60°C for 60 sn using a special thermocure lamp. Resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGIC) and polyacid-modified composite resin (PMCR) were placed in the cavities and polymerized with an LED curing unit. Temperature increases during setting reactions were measured with a J-type thermocouple wire connected to a data logger. Data were examined using two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's honestly significant difference tests. Results. The use of GC resulted in temperature changes of 5.17 ± 0.92°C and 5.32 ± 0.90°C in primary and permanent teeth, respectively (p > 0.05). Temperature increases were greatest in the GC group, differing significantly from those in the PMCR group (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Temperature increases during polymerization and setting reactions of the materials were below the critical value in all groups. No difference was observed between primary and permanent teeth, regardless of the material used.

Modifications in Glass Ionomer Cements: Nano-Sized Fillers and Bioactive Nanoceramics

Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are being used for a wide range of applications in dentistry. In order to overcome the poor mechanical properties of glass ionomers, several modifications have been introduced to the conventional GICs. Nanotechnology involves the use of systems, modifications or materials the size of which is in the range of 1–100 nm. Nano-modification of conventional GICs and resin modified GICs (RMGICs) can be achieved by incorporation of nano-sized fillers to RMGICs, reducing the size of the glass particles, and introducing nano-sized bioceramics to the glass powder. Studies suggest that the commercially available nano-filled RMGIC does not hold any significant advantage over conventional RMGICs as far as the mechanical and bonding properties are concerned. Conversely, incorporation of nano-sized apatite crystals not only increases the mechanical properties of conventional GICs, but also can enhance fluoride release and bioactivity. By increasing the crystallinity of the set matrix, apatites can make the set cement chemically more stable, insoluble, and improve the bond strength with tooth structure. Increased fluoride release can also reduce and arrest secondary caries. However, due to a lack of long-term clinical studies, the use of nano-modified glass ionomers is still limited in daily clinical dentistry. In addition to the in vitro and in vivo studies, more randomized clinical trials are required to justify the use of these promising materials. The aim of this paper is to review the modification performed in GIC-based materials to improve their physicochemical properties.

Tantalum Nitride-Decorated Titanium with Enhanced Resistance to Microbiologically Induced Corrosion and Mechanical Property for Dental Application

Microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC) of metallic devices/implants in the oral region is one major cause of implant failure and metal allergy in patients. Therefore, it is crucial to develop practical approaches which can effectively prevent MIC for broad clinical applications of these materials. In the present work, tantalum nitride (TaN)-decorated titanium with promoted bio-corrosion and mechanical property was firstly developed via depositing TaN layer onto pure Ti using magnetron sputtering. The microstructure and chemical constituent of TaN coatings were characterized, and were found to consist of a hard fcc-TaN outer layer. Besides, the addition of TaN coatings greatly increased the hardness and modulus of pristine Ti from 2.54 ± 0.20 to 29.88 ± 2.59 GPa, and from 107.19 ± 6.98 to 295.46 ± 19.36 GPa, respectively. Potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicated that TaN coating exhibited higher MIC resistance in comparison to bare Ti and TiN-coated coating in two bacteria-containing artificial saliva solutions. Moreover, the biofilm experiment showed that the TaN-decorated Ti sample possessed good antibacterial performance. The SEM and XPS results after biofilm removal demonstrated that TaN film remained its integrity and stability, while TiN layer detached from Ti surface in the bio-corrosion tests, demonstrating the anti-MIC behavior and the strong binding property of TaN coating to Ti substrate. Considering all these results, TaN-decorated Ti material exhibits the optimal comprehensive performance and holds great potential as implant material for dental applications.

Effect on enamel shear bond strength of adding microsilver and nanosilver particles to the primer of an orthodontic adhesive

Background

The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of microsilver or nanosilver particles to an orthodontic primer affects shear bond strength (SBS) and bracket/adhesive failure.

Methods

Bovine incisors were randomly divided into six groups with 16 specimens in each: In group 1 (control), brackets were bonded with Transbond™ XT primer. In the experimental groups, microsilver (groups 2 and 3) and nanosilver (groups 4–6) particles of different sizes were added to Transbond XT primer and light cured for 15 seconds [group 2: 0.1% (w/w) microsilver particle size 3.5–18 μm; group 3: 0.3% (w/w) microsilver particle size 3.5–18 μm; group 4: 0.11% (w/w) nanosilver particle size 12.6–18.5 nm; group 5: 0.18% (w/w) nanosilver particle size 12.6–18.5 nm; group 6: 0.33% (w/w) nanosilver particle size 12.6–18.5 nm]. Thereafter, brackets were bonded by light curing the adhesive for 20 seconds. After 24 hours of storage in distilled water at 37°C, SBS was measured with a Zwicki 1120 testing machine. The adhesive remnant index and the prevalence of silver spots on the specimen surface were determined under 10× magnification. Statistical two-way analysis of variance was performed to compare SBS, and a chi-square test was used to compare ARI scores and the prevalence of silver spots.

Results

No significant differences in SBS (control: 16.59 ± 6.82 MPa; group 2: 20.6 ± 4.19 MPa; group 3: 16.98 ± 4.84 MPa; group 4: 17.15 ± 5.92 MPa; group 5: 20.09 ± 3.35 MPa; group 6: 16.44 ± 4.51 MPa; p > 0.665) and ARI scores (p = 0.901) were found between the control group and any experimental group. Only experimental groups with nanosilver particles revealed statistically more silver spots on the remaining adhesive.

Conclusions

Addition of small concentrations of microsilver or nanosilver particles affects neither SBS nor ARI scores. Addition of nanosilver particles results in silver spots in the remaining primer visible under 10× magnification. Further studies are needed to investigate the anti-caries potential and clinical performance of conventional orthodontic primer with incorporated nanosilver or microsilver particles.

Nanoparticles in orthodontics, a review of antimicrobial and anti-caries applications

Nanoparticles (NPs) are insoluble particles smaller than 100 nm in size. In order to prevent microbial adhesion or enamel demineralization in orthodontic therapy, two broad strategies have been used. These are incorporating certain NPs into orthodontic adhesives/cements or acrylic resins (nanofillers, silver, TiO2, SiO2, hydroxyapatite, fluorapatite, fluorohydroxyapatite) and coating surfaces of orthodontic appliances with NPs (i.e. coating bracket surfaces with a thin film of nitrogen-doped TiO2). Although the use of NPs in orthodontics can offer new possibilities, previous studies investigated the antimicrobial or physical characteristic over a short time span, i.e. 24 hours to a few weeks, and the limitations of in vitro studies should be recognized. Information on the long-term performance of orthodontic material using nanotechnology is lacking and necessitates further investigation and so do possible safety issues (toxicity), which can be related to the NP sizes.

Nanotechnology-based restorative materials for dental caries management

Nanotechnology has been applied to dental materials as an innovative concept for the development of materials with better properties and anticaries potential. In this review we discuss the current progress and future applications of functional nanoparticles incorporated in dental restorative materials as useful strategies to dental caries management. We also overview proposed antimicrobial and remineralizing mechanisms. Nanomaterials have great potential to decrease biofilm accumulation, inhibit the demineralization process, to be used for remineralizing tooth structure, and to combat caries-related bacteria. These results are encouraging and open the doors to future clinical studies that will allow the therapeutic value of nanotechnology-based restorative materials to be established.

Calcium orthophosphates in dentistry

Dental caries, also known as tooth decay or a cavity, remains a major public health problem in the most communities even though the prevalence of disease has decreased since the introduction of fluorides for dental care. Therefore, biomaterials to fill dental defects appear to be necessary to fulfill customers' needs regarding the properties and the processing of the products. Bioceramics and glass-ceramics are widely used for these purposes, as dental inlays, onlays, veneers, crowns or bridges. Calcium orthophosphates belong to bioceramics but they have some specific advantages over other types of bioceramics due to a chemical similarity to the inorganic part of both human and mammalian bones and teeth. Therefore, calcium orthophosphates (both alone and as components of various formulations) are used in dentistry as both dental fillers and implantable scaffolds. This review provides brief information on calcium orthophosphates and describes in details current state-of-the-art on their applications in dentistry and dentistry-related fields. Among the recognized dental specialties, calcium orthophosphates are most frequently used in periodontics; however, the majority of the publications on calcium orthophosphates in dentistry are devoted to unspecified "dental" fields.