Novel multifunctional nanocomposite for root caries restorations to inhibit periodontitis-related pathogens

Dental resin for periodontal and tooth root regeneration via metformin to enhance osteogenic and cementogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells

OBJECTIVES

This study developed a novel dental resin incorporating metformin to repair root caries and periodontitis defects. The objectives were to: (1) Develop a novel dental resin with metformin release to fulfill the clinical requirements for mechanical properties; and (2) investigate the metformin release pattern and the effects on osteogenic and cementogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

METHODS

Resin specimens with different concentrations of metformin were fabricated. Metformin release was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Cellular growth and proliferation on resin were assessed. Alizarin red S staining and an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were determined. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR was employed to determine osteogenic and cementogenic differentiation.

RESULTS

The resin with 7.5 % metformin had mechanical properties comparable to those of a commercial control, thus satisfying the clinical requirements (mean ± SD; n = 10). hPDLSCs showed robust growth and proliferation on resin. At 14 days, the number of hPDLSCs increased by four-fold (p > 0.1). ALP activity in the metformin group was 1.8 times higher than that of control (p < 0.05). At 21 days, the metformin group showed a significant increase in mineral synthesis. Metformin group had cementogenic and osteogenic differentiation values that were 2.5 and 2.3 times higher, respectively, than control without metformin (p < 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

A metformin-resin was formulated that greatly promoted both cementogenic and osteogenic differentiation for the first time. This resin was mechanically strong and supported hPDLSC adhesion, growth and proliferation. This resin substantially enhanced hPDLSC osteogenic and cementogenic differentiation, yielding mineral synthesis of hPDLSCs more than 2-fold that of control without metformin. This new metformin-resin shows promise for the restoration of tooth root caries and the regeneration of periodontal tissues including alveolar bone and cementum.

Novel antibacterial orthodontic elastomeric ligature with oral biofilm-regulatory ability to prevent enamel demineralization

OBJECTIVES

To synthesize a novel antibacterial orthodontic elastomeric ligature incorporating dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) for the first time to prevent enamel demineralization during orthodontic therapy.

METHODS

Various mass fractions of DMAHDM (ranging from 0 % to 20 %) were grafted onto commercial elastomeric ligatures using an ultraviolet photochemical grafting method and were characterized. The optimal DMAHDM concentration was determined based on biocompatibility and mechanical properties, and the antibacterial efficacy was evaluated in a whole-plaque biofilm model. TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to assess the microbial regulatory ability of the multispecies biofilms. Furthermore, an in vitro tooth demineralization model was established to explore its preventive effects on enamel demineralization. Statistical analysis involved a one-way analysis of variance and LSD post hoc tests at a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

The elastomeric ligature containing 2 % mass fraction of DMAHDM exhibited excellent mechanical properties, favorable biocompatibility, and the most effective antibacterial ability against microorganisms, which decreased by almost two logarithms (P < 0.05). It significantly reduced the proportion of Streptococcus mutans in the multispecies plaque biofilm by 25 % at 72 h, leading to an enhanced biofilm microenvironment. Moreover, the novel elastomeric ligature demonstrated an obvious preventive effect on enamel demineralization, with an elastic modulus 30 % higher and hardness 62 % higher than those of the control group within 3 months (P < 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

The integration of DMAHDM with an elastomeric ligature holds significant promise for regulating biofilms and preventing enamel demineralization in orthodontic applications.

Novel Resin-Based Antibacterial Root Surface Coating Material to Combat Dental Caries

Root caries caused by cariogenic bacteria are a burden on a large number of individuals worldwide, especially the elderly. Applying a protective coating to exposed root surfaces has the potential to inhibit the development of caries, thus preserving natural teeth. This study aimed to develop a novel antibacterial coating to combat root caries and evaluate its effectiveness using the antibacterial monomer dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM). DMAHDM was synthesized and incorporated into a resin consisting of 55.8% urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) and 44.2% TEG-DVBE (UV) at a 10% mass fraction of glass filler. Multiple concentrations of DMAHDM were tested for their impact on the resin's mechanical and physical properties. S. mutans biofilms grown on resin disks were analyzed for antibacterial efficacy. Cytotoxicity was assessed against human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). The results showed an 8-log reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs) against S. mutans biofilm (mean ± sd; n = 6) (p < 0.05) when 5% DMAHDM was incorporated into the UV resin. There was a 90% reduction in metabolic activity and lactic acid production. A low level of cytotoxicity against HGF was observed without compromising the physical and mechanical properties of the resin. This coating material demonstrated promising physical properties, potent antibacterial effects, and low toxicity, suggesting its potential to protect exposed roots from caries in various dental procedures and among elderly individuals with gingival recession.

Silica nanoparticles containing nano-silver and chlorhexidine to suppress Porphyromonas gingivalis biofilm and modulate multispecies biofilms toward healthy tendency

Objectives

This research first investigated the effect of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (nMS) carrying chlorhexidine and silver (nMS-nAg-Chx) on periodontitis-related biofilms. This study aimed to investigate (1) the antibacterial activity on Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) biofilm; (2) the suppressing effect on virulence of P. gingivalis biofilm; (3) the regulating effect on periodontitis-related multispecies biofilm.

Methods

Silver nanoparticles (nAg) and chlorhexidine (Chx) were co-loaded into nMS to form nMS-nAg-Chx. Inhibitory zone test and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against P. gingivalis were tested. Growth curves, crystal violet (CV) staining, live/dead staining and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation were performed. Biofilm virulence was assessed. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and Quantitative Real Time-PCR (qPCR) were performed to validate the activity and composition changes of multispecies biofilm (P. gingivalis, Streptococcus gordonii and Streptococcus sanguinis).

Results

nMS-nAg-Chx inhibited P. gingivalis biofilm dose-dependently (p<0.05), with MIC of 18.75 µg/mL. There were fewer live bacteria, less biomass and less virulence in nMS-nAg-Chx groups (p<0.05). nMS-nAg-Chx inhibited and modified periodontitis-related biofilms. The proportion of pathogenic bacteria decreased from 16.08 to 1.07% and that of helpful bacteria increased from 82.65 to 94.31% in 25 μg/mL nMS-nAg-Chx group for 72 h.

Conclusions

nMS-nAg-Chx inhibited P. gingivalis growth, decreased biofilm virulence and modulated periodontitis-related multispecies biofilms toward healthy tendency. pH-sensitive nMS-nAg-Chx inhibit the pathogens and regulate oral microecology, showing great potential in periodontitis adjunctive therapy.

Emerging strategies for combating Fusobacterium nucleatum in colorectal cancer treatment: Systematic review, improvements and future challenges

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is generally characterized by a high prevalence of Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a spindle-shaped, Gram-negative anaerobe pathogen derived from the oral cavity. This tumor-resident microorganism has been closely correlated with the occurrence, progression, chemoresistance and immunosuppressive microenvironment of CRC. Furthermore, F. nucleatum can specifically colonize CRC tissues through adhesion on its surface, forming biofilms that are highly resistant to commonly used antibiotics. Accordingly, it is crucial to develop efficacious non-antibiotic approaches to eradicate F. nucleatum and its biofilms for CRC treatment. In recent years, various antimicrobial strategies, such as natural extracts, inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, polymers, inorganic-organic hybrid materials, bacteriophages, probiotics, and vaccines, have been proposed to combat F. nucleatum and F. nucleatum biofilms. This review summarizes the latest advancements in anti-F. nucleatum research, elucidates the antimicrobial mechanisms employed by these systems, and discusses the benefits and drawbacks of each antimicrobial technology. Additionally, this review also provides an outlook on the antimicrobial specificity, potential clinical implications, challenges, and future improvements of these antimicrobial strategies in the treatment of CRC.

Effects of Bio-Aging on Mechanical Properties and Microbial Behavior of Different Resin Composites

Under challenging oral environments, the overall performance of resin composites is affected by bio-aging. This study investigated the effects of saliva biofilm-induced bio-aging on the mechanical properties and microbial behavior of composites with different filler types. Microhybrid, nanohybrid, nano-filled and nano-filled flowable composites were bio-aged with saliva biofilm for 30 days. Surface morphology, roughness, mechanical and aesthetic properties were determined. A 48 h saliva biofilm model was used to evaluate the microbial behavior of different composites in vitro. Biofilm metabolic activity, lactic acid production and live/dead bacterial staining were tested. Six volunteers were selected to wear intra-oral appliances with composite slabs for 24 h and biofilms were collected and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing to assess the biofilm formation over those materials in situ. Although there were increasing trends, surface roughness, water resorption and material solubility had no significant changes for all groups after bio-aging (p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in elastic modulus for all groups after aging (p > 0.05). However, a decrease in flexural strength in all groups was observed (p < 0.05), except for the nanoflow composite group (p > 0.05). The Vickers hardness remained stable in all groups after aging (p > 0.05), except for the nano-filled group (p < 0.05). The nanoflow composite showed distinct color changes compared to the micro-hybrid group after aging (p < 0.05). Biofilm metabolic activity and lactic acid production in vitro increased slightly after bio-aging in all groups, but with no statistical significance (p > 0.05). The Shannon index diversity of biofilms in situ decreased after aging (p < 0.05), while no significant difference was shown in species composition at the genus level in all groups (p > 0.05). Resin composites with different sized fillers displayed a relatively stable mechanical performance and uncompromised microbial behavior both in vitro and in situ after 30 days of bio-aging. Based on the results, composites with different filler types can be selected flexibly according to clinical needs. However, a longer time for bio-aging is still needed to confirm the mechanical properties and microbial behaviors of composites in the long run.

Nanomaterials: an intra-periodontal pocket drug-delivery system for periodontitis

Periodontitis is a microbiological condition that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. The fundamental to effective periodontal therapy is choosing the suitable antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, together with the proper route of drug administration and delivery system. Intra-periodontal pocket approach with nano drug-delivery systems (NDDS) such as polymeric nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, liposomes, polymersomes, exosomes, nano micelles, niosome, solid lipid nanoparticles, nano lipid carriers, nanocomposites, nanogels, nanofibers, scaffolds, dendrimers, quantum dots, etc., will be appropriate route of drug administration and delivery system. This NDDS delivers the drugs at the site of infection to inhibit growth and promote tissue regeneration. The present review focused on providing comprehensive information on the NDDS for periodontitis, which enhanced therapeutic outcomes via intra-periodontal pocket delivery.

Polymeric Nanotechnologies for the Treatment of Periodontitis: A Chronological Review

Periodontitis is a chronic infectious and inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues estimated to affect 70 - 80 % of all adults. At the same time, periodontium, the site of periodontal pathologies, is an extraordinarily complex plexus of soft and hard tissues, the regeneration of which using even the most advanced forms of tissue engineering continues to be a challenge. Nanotechnologies, meanwhile, have provided exquisite tools for producing biomaterials and pharmaceutical formulations capable of elevating the efficacies of standard pharmacotherapies and surgical approaches to whole new levels. A bibliographic analysis provided here demonstrates a continuously increasing research output of studies on the use of nanotechnologies in the management of periodontal disease, even when they are normalized to the total output of studies on periodontitis. The great majority of biomaterials used to tackle periodontitis, including those that pioneered this interesting field, have been polymeric. In this article, a chronological review of polymeric nanotechnologies for the treatment of periodontitis is provided, focusing on the major conceptual innovations since the late 1990s, when the first nanostructures for the treatment of periodontal diseases were fabricated. In the opening sections, the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontitis and the anatomical and histological characteristics of the periodontium are being described, along with the general clinical manifestations of the disease and the standard means of its therapy. The most prospective chemistries in the design of polymers for these applications are also elaborated. It is concluded that the amount of innovation in this field is on the rise, despite the fact that most studies are focused on the refinement of already established paradigms in tissue engineering rather than on the development of revolutionary new concepts.

Impact of direct restorative dental materials on surface root caries treatment. Evidence based and current materials development: A systematic review

This systematic review provides an update on the development and efficacy of direct restorative dental materials for root caries interventions from in vitro and clinical studies. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched using specific MeSH keywords. Full articles from September 1990 to October 2021 were collected. Additional articles were identified by reference retrieval and manual searching. Studies not related to restorative materials for root caries treatment, case reports, non-original articles, and/or articles not written in English were excluded. Bias risk assessment was performed for the clinical studies. Forty-two articles (eleven clinical studies and thirty-one in vitro studies) were included for analysis. Most in vitro studies indicated an excellent cariostatic effect of glass ionomer cement. Resin-modified glass ionomer restorations also presented reduced recurrent caries activity but had a lower efficacy than glass ionomer cement restorations. For composite resin restorations, the main material development strategies are to strengthen the tooth structure and integrate antimicrobial activity. The clinical studies offered limited data, so the most appropriate material for surface root caries treatment is still inconclusive. However, atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) is an alternative treatment for patients with limiting conditions. Further clinical studies are required to confirm the efficacy of bioactive materials.

A comprehensive review of the antibacterial activity of dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) and its influence on mechanical properties of resin-based dental materials

The repetitive restorative cycle should be avoided, aiming at the smallest number of restorations' replacements to ensure greater tooth longevity. Antibacterial materials associated with the control of caries etiological factors can help improve restoration's durability. This review aimed to analyze the results of in vitro studies that added Dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM), an antibacterial monomer, to restorative materials. The PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde databases were screened for studies published between 2015 and 2020. After full-text reading, 24 articles were included in the final sample. DMAHDM has demonstrated antibacterial efficacy against several bacteria related to dental caries and periodontal diseases, causing a transition in the biofilm balance without inducing resistance. When DMAHDM was included in acrylic resin, the material cytotoxicity increased, and changes in mechanical properties were observed. In contrast, resin composites had their mechanical properties maintained in most studies; however, toxicity was not examined. The association between DMAHDM and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine or silver nanoparticles improved the antibacterial effect. Besides, the association with nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate or nanoparticles of calcium fluoride can provide remineralization capacity. There is a lack of information on the cytotoxicity and bacteria resistance induction, and further studies are needed to address this.

Biocompatible orthodontic cement with antibacterial capability and protein repellency

BACKGROUND

White spot lesions (WSLs) often occur in orthodontic treatments. The objectives of this study were to develop a novel orthodontic cement using particles of nano silver (NAg), N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), and to investigate the effects on bonding strength, biofilms and biocompatibility.

METHODS

A commercial resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) was modified by adding NAg, NAC and MPC. The unmodified RMGIC served as the control. Enamel bond strength and cytotoxicity of the cements were investigated. The protein repellent behavior of cements was also evaluated. The metabolic assay, lactic acid production assay and colony-forming unit assay of biofilms were used to determine the antibacterial capability of cements.

RESULTS

The new bioactive cement with NAg, NAC and MPC had clinically acceptable bond strength and biocompatibility. Compared to commercial control, the new cement suppressed metabolic activity and lactic acid production of biofilms by 59.03% and 70.02% respectively (p < 0.05), reduced biofilm CFU by 2 logs (p < 0.05) and reduced protein adsorption by 76.87% (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The new cement with NAg, NAC and MPC had strong antibacterial capability, protein-repellent ability and acceptable biocompatibility. The new cement is promising to protect enamel from demineralization during orthodontic treatments.

The effect of N-acetylcysteine on the antibacterial capability and biocompatibility of nano silver-containing orthodontic cement

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether the incorporation of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves the antibacterial ability and biocompatibility of nano silver (NAg)-containing orthodontic cement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

NAg was synthesized using a sodium citrate reduction method. NAg particles were characterized using transmission electron microscopy and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectra. NAg and NAC were incorporated into a resin-modified glass ionomer cement. Enamel shear bond strength (SBS), antibacterial capability, and cytotoxicity were evaluated.

RESULTS

Incorporating 0.15% NAg and 20% NAC had no adverse effect on the SBS of orthodontic cement (P > .1). Adding NAC into NAg-containing cement greatly reduced the biofilm metabolic activity and lactic acid production (P < .05) and lowered the colony unit-forming counts by approximately 1 log (P < .05). The cell viability against NAg-containing cement was improved by NAC (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incorporation of NAC into NAg-containing cement achieved stronger antibacterial capability and better biocompatibility, without compromising the enamel SBS. The combined use of NAC and NAg is promising to combat caries in orthodontic practice.

Drug Delivery (Nano)Platforms for Oral and Dental Applications: Tissue Regeneration, Infection Control, and Cancer Management

The oral cavity and oropharynx are complex environments that are susceptible to physical, chemical, and microbiological insults. They are also common sites for pathological and cancerous changes. The effectiveness of conventional locally-administered medications against diseases affecting these oral milieus may be compromised by constant salivary flow. For systemically-administered medications, drug resistance and adverse side-effects are issues that need to be resolved. New strategies for drug delivery have been investigated over the last decade to overcome these obstacles. Synthesis of nanoparticle-containing agents that promote healing represents a quantum leap in ensuring safe, efficient drug delivery to the affected tissues. Micro/nanoencapsulants with unique structures and properties function as more favorable drug-release platforms than conventional treatment approaches. The present review provides an overview of newly-developed nanocarriers and discusses their potential applications and limitations in various fields of dentistry and oral medicine.

The Antibacterial and Remineralizing Effects of Biomaterials Combined with DMAHDM Nanocomposite: A Systematic Review

Researchers have developed novel nanocomposites that incorporate additional biomaterials with dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) in order to reduce secondary caries. The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature and assess the synergistic antibacterial and remineralizing effects that may contribute to the prevention of secondary caries. An electronic search was undertaken in MEDLINE using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane databases. The initial search identified 954 papers. After the removal of duplicates and screening the titles and abstracts, 15 articles were eligible for this review. The amalgamation of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with DMAHDM resulted in increased antibacterial potency. The addition of nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) and polyamidoamine dendrimers (PAMAM) resulted in improved remineralization potential. Further clinical studies need to be planned to explore the antibacterial and remineralizing properties of these novel composites for clinical success.

Review of nano-technology applications in resin-based restorative materials

OBJECTIVE

Nanotechnology has progressed significantly and particles as small as 3 nm are being employed in resin-based restorative materials to improve clinical performance. The goal of this review is to report the progress of nanotechnology in Restorative Dentistry by reviewing the advantages, limitations, and applications of resin-based restorative materials with nanoparticles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Embase databases. In vitro, in vivo and in situ research studies published in English between 1999 and 2020, and which focused on the analysis of resin-based restorative materials containing nanoparticles were included.

RESULTS

A total of 140 studies were included in this review. Studies reported the effect of incorporating different types of nanoparticles on adhesive systems or resin composites. Mechanical, physical, and anti-bacterial properties were described. The clinical performance of resin-based restorative materials with nanoparticles was also reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The high surface area of nanoparticles exponentially increases the bioactivity of materials using bioactive nanofillers. However, the tendency of nanoparticles to agglomerate, the chemical instability of the developed materials and the decline of rheological properties when high ratios of nanoparticles are employed are some of the obstacles to overcome in the near future.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In spite of the recent advancements of nanotechnology in resin-based restorative materials, some challenges need to be overcome before new nano-based restorative materials are considered permanent solutions to clinical problems.

Biocompatible Nanocomposite Enhanced Osteogenic and Cementogenic Differentiation of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells In Vitro for Periodontal Regeneration

Decays in the roots of teeth is prevalent in seniors as people live longer and retain more of their teeth to an old age, especially in patients with periodontal disease and gingival recession. The objectives of this study were to develop a biocompatible nanocomposite with nano-sized calcium fluoride particles (Nano-CaF₂), and to investigate for the first time the effects on osteogenic and cementogenic induction of periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) from human donors.Nano-CaF₂ particles with a mean particle size of 53 nm were produced via a spray-drying machine.Nano-CaF₂ was mingled into the composite at 0%, 10%, 15% and 20% by mass. Flexural strength (160 ± 10) MPa, elastic modulus (11.0 ± 0.5) GPa, and hardness (0.58 ± 0.03) GPa for Nano-CaF₂ composite exceeded those of a commercial dental composite (p < 0.05). Calcium (Ca) and fluoride (F) ions were released steadily from the composite. Osteogenic genes were elevated for hPDLSCs growing on 20% Nano-CaF₂. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) peaked at 14 days. Collagen type 1 (COL1), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and osteopontin (OPN) peaked at 21 days. Cementogenic genes were also enhanced on 20% Nano-CaF₂ composite, promoting cementum adherence protein (CAP), cementum protein 1 (CEMP1) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) expressions (p < 0.05). At 7, 14 and 21 days, the ALP activity of hPDLSCs on 20% Nano-CaF₂ composite was 57-fold, 78-fold, and 55-fold greater than those of control, respectively (p < 0.05). Bone mineral secretion by hPDLSCs on 20% Nano-CaF₂ composite was 2-fold that of control (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the novel Nano-CaF₂ composite was biocompatible and supported hPDLSCs. Nano-CaF₂ composite is promising to fill tooth root cavities and release Ca and F ions to enhance osteogenic and cementogenic induction of hPDLSCs and promote periodontium regeneration.

In vivo Microbial Diversity Analysis on Different Surfaces of Dental Restorative Materials via 16S rDNA Sequencing

Background

This study aimed to provide precise material selection guidance for proper clinical restoration and treatment of plaque-related oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases.

Material/Methods

Four groups (n=24) of restorative material sheets (n=24) were prepared using 3M Z350 composite resin (ZR), zinc phosphate cement (ZPC), glass-ionomer (GI), and ICON permeable resin (IPR). Six volunteers wore a plaque-collection device equipped with the 4 restorative material sheets for 48 hours. Plaque samples were collected, and Miseq sequencing was applied to obtain template DNA fragments for microbial diversity analysis. The data were analyzed with nonparametric tests.

Results

The microbial diversity on the ZPC surface was significantly lower than that on GI and IPR surfaces. The abundance of Firmicutes and Streptococcus on the ZPC surface was significantly higher than on the surfaces of GI and IPR. In contrast, the abundance of Porphyromonas on the surface of ZPC was significantly lower than that on GI and IPR surfaces. (P<0.05).

Conclusions

The results of the present study might serve as a basis for material selection under different oral microbial conditions to provide more accurate treatments and restorative procedures in the oral cavity.

Use of Silver Nanomaterials for Caries Prevention: A Concise Review

Objective

The aim of this concise review is to summarize the use of silver nanomaterials for caries prevention.

Methods

Two researchers independently performed a literature search of publications in English using Embase, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus databases. The keywords used were (silver nanoparticles OR AgNPs OR nano silver OR nano-silver) AND (caries OR tooth decay OR remineralisation OR remineralization). They screened the title and abstract to identify potentially eligible publications. They then retrieved the full texts of the identified publications to select original research reporting silver nanomaterials for caries prevention.

Results

The search identified 376 publications, and 66 articles were included in this study. The silver nanomaterials studied were categorized as resin with silver nanoparticles (n=31), silver nanoparticles (n=21), glass ionomer cement with silver nanoparticles (n=7), and nano silver fluoride (n=7). Most (59/66, 89%) studies investigated the antibacterial properties, and they all found that silver nanomaterials inhibited the adhesion and growth of cariogenic bacteria, mainly Streptococcus mutans. Although silver nanomaterials were used as anti-caries agents, only 11 (11/66, 17%) studies reported the effects of nanomaterials on the mineral content of teeth. Eight of them are laboratory studies, and they found that silver nanomaterials prevented the demineralization of enamel and dentin under an acid or cariogenic biofilm challenge. The remaining three are clinical trials that reported that silver nanomaterials prevented and arrested caries in children.

Conclusion

Silver nanoparticles have been used alone or with resin, glass ionomer, or fluoride for caries prevention. Silver nanomaterials inhibit the adhesion and growth of cariogenic bacteria. They also impede the demineralization of enamel and dentin.

Novel Bioactive and Therapeutic Dental Polymeric Materials to Inhibit Periodontal Pathogens and Biofilms

Periodontitis is a common infectious disease characterized by loss of tooth-supporting structures, which eventually leads to tooth loss. The heavy burden of periodontal disease and its negative consequence on the patient's quality of life indicate a strong need for developing effective therapies. According to the World Health Organization, 10⁻15% of the global population suffers from severe periodontitis. Advances in understanding the etiology, epidemiology and microbiology of periodontal pocket flora have called for antibacterial therapeutic strategies for periodontitis treatment. Currently, antimicrobial strategies combining with polymer science have attracted tremendous interest in the last decade. This review focuses on the state of the art of antibacterial polymer application against periodontal pathogens and biofilms. The first part focuses on the different polymeric materials serving as antibacterial agents, drug carriers and periodontal barrier membranes to inhibit periodontal pathogens. The second part reviews cutting-edge research on the synthesis and evaluation of a new generation of bioactive dental polymers for Class-V restorations with therapeutic effects. They possess antibacterial, acid-reduction, protein-repellent, and remineralization capabilities. In addition, the antibacterial photodynamic therapy with polymeric materials against periodontal pathogens and biofilms is also briefly described in the third part. These novel bioactive and therapeutic polymeric materials and treatment methods have great potential to inhibit periodontitis and protect tooth structures.