The Benefits of Smart Nanoparticles in Dental Applications

Mapping the research landscape of nanoparticles and their use in denture base resins: a bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND

Nanoparticles are increasingly used in dentistry for various applications, including enhancing the mechanical properties of denture base resins. This study aimed to comprehensively review and analyze the research landscape of nanoparticles and their effect on the flexural strength of denture base resins to identify key research areas and trends and to highlight the importance of collaboration between authors and institutions.

METHODS

A Bibliometric Analysis was conducted using the Keywords "Nanoparticle*" AND "Denture*" OR "CAD/CAM." The literature search from the WOS database was restricted to the publication years 2011 to 2022.

RESULTS

Key findings encompass an increase in research publications but a decline in citations. Saudi Arabia, China, and Iraq led this research, with specific institutions excelling. Notable journals with high impact factors were identified. Authorship patterns show variations in citation impact. Additionally, keyword analysis revealed that current research trends offer insights into influential authors and their networks.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis of nanoparticles and denture base resins reveals a dynamic and evolving landscape that emphasizes the importance of collaboration, staying current with research trends, and conducting high-quality research in this ever-evolving domain.

Use of Nanoparticles in Regenerative Dentistry: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

nanoparticles are tiny-sized materials whose characteristics and properties mean that their association with dental materials is being investigated to ascertain their effects and possible benefits on tooth structures. This systematic review aimed to qualitatively collect in vitro studies that address the potential application of different nanoparticles in dental regeneration. Following an exhaustive search and article selection process, 16 in vitro studies that met our eligibility criteria were included. BG-NPs were analyzed across five studies, with three demonstrating their impact on the growth and differentiation of human hDPSCs. CS-NPs were examined in three studies, with findings from two indicating a significant effect on the differentiation of SCAPs. Nanoparticles' therapeutic potential and their stimulatory effect on promoting the regeneration of cells of the dentin-pulp complex have been proven. Their effect is altered according to the type of nanoparticle, concentration, and substances associated with them and, depending on these variables, they will affect the pulp, dentine, and dental cementum differently.

Evaluation of mechanical, optical, and fluoride-releasing properties of a translucent bulk fill glass hybrid restorative dental material

OBJECTIVE

Measure and compare the mechanical properties, translucency, and fluoride-releasing capabilities of EQUIA Forte HT against Fuji IX GP and ChemFil Rock.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten specimens of each material were fabricated for compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and surface hardness analysis at 24 h and 7 days. The L*a*b* values were measured against a black-and-white background using a spectrophotometer to analyze the translucency parameter (TP). Fluoride release was recorded after 2 months of immersion in distilled water. The mean data was analyzed by 1- and 2-way ANOVA (α = 0.5).

RESULTS

EQUIA Forte HT showed higher CS, surface hardness, and FS values (p < 0.05) compared with Fuji IX GIC, while no significant difference was found in FS values between EQUIA Forte HT and Chemfil Rock (p > 0.05). The EQUIA Forte HT exhibited significantly higher translucency in comparison to both ChemFil Rock (p < 0.001) and Fuji IX GICs (p < 0.05). An increase (p > 0.05) of fluoride release was observed for EQUIA Forte HT.

CONCLUSION

The EQUIA Forte HT Glass-ionomer cements (GIC) offers enhanced translucency, improved strength, and enhanced fluoride-releasing properties compared to the traditionally used Fuji IX GIC and ChemFil Rock GICs. This material might have a wide range of clinical applications due to its improved strength and optical properties.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Glass-ionomer dental restorative materials possess unique advantageous characteristics. However, its poor mechanical and optical properties have typically limited its clinical applications. Efforts to improve these properties have resulted in enhanced GICs. EQUIA Forte HT GIC offers enhanced mechanical and optical properties with potential applications in posterior and anterior restorative procedures.

Emerging Applications of Nanotechnology in Dentistry

Dentistry is a branch of healthcare where nanobiotechnology is reverberating in multiple ways to produce beneficial outcomes. The purpose of this review is to bring into the awareness of the readers the various practical dimensions of the nano-dental complex (nanodentistry) in healthcare and how novelties linked with the field are revolutionizing dentistry. A methodological approach was adopted to collect the latest data on nanotechnology and dentistry from sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and official websites like the WHO. Nanodentistry is an emerging field in dentistry that involves the use of nanomaterials, nanorobots, and nanotechnology to diagnose, treat, and prevent dental diseases. The results summarize the descriptive analyses of the uses of nanodentistry within orthodontics, preventive dentistry, prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, periodontics, dental surgeries, dental restoration technologies, and other areas of dentistry. The future directions of nano-industries and nano-healthcare have been included to link them with the oral healthcare sector, treatment plans, and improved medical services which could be explored in the future for advanced healthcare regulation. The major limitations to the use of dental nanoproducts are their cost-effectiveness and accessibility, especially in financially constrained countries. These data will help the readers to experience a detailed analysis and comprehensive covering of the diverse achievements of nanodentistry with past analyses, present scenarios, and future implications.

Emerging Applications of Nanotechnology in Healthcare and Medicine

Knowing the beneficial aspects of nanomedicine, scientists are trying to harness the applications of nanotechnology in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. There are also potential uses in designing medical tools and processes for the new generation of medical scientists. The main objective for conducting this research review is to gather the widespread aspects of nanomedicine under one heading and to highlight standard research practices in the medical field. Comprehensive research has been conducted to incorporate the latest data related to nanotechnology in medicine and therapeutics derived from acknowledged scientific platforms. Nanotechnology is used to conduct sensitive medical procedures. Nanotechnology is showing successful and beneficial uses in the fields of diagnostics, disease treatment, regenerative medicine, gene therapy, dentistry, oncology, aesthetics industry, drug delivery, and therapeutics. A thorough association of and cooperation between physicians, clinicians, researchers, and technologies will bring forward a future where there is a more calculated, outlined, and technically programed field of nanomedicine. Advances are being made to overcome challenges associated with the application of nanotechnology in the medical field due to the pathophysiological basis of diseases. This review highlights the multipronged aspects of nanomedicine and how nanotechnology is proving beneficial for the health industry. There is a need to minimize the health, environmental, and ethical concerns linked to nanotechnology.

Using Thermomechanical Properties to Reassess Particles' Dispersion in Nanostructured Polymers: Size vs. Content

Nanoparticle-filled polymers (i.e., nanocomposites) can exhibit characteristics unattainable by the unfilled polymer, making them attractive to engineer structural composites. However, the transition of particulate fillers from the micron to the nanoscale requires a comprehensive understanding of how particle downsizing influences molecular interactions and organization across multiple length scales, ranging from chemical bonding to microstructural evolution. This work outlines the advancements described in the literature that have become relevant and have shaped today's understanding of the processing-structure-property relationships in polymer nanocomposites. The main inorganic and organic particles that have been incorporated into polymers are examined first. The commonly practiced methods for nanoparticle incorporation are then highlighted. The development in mechanical properties-such as tensile strength, storage modulus and glass transition temperature-in the selected epoxy matrix nanocomposites described in the literature was specifically reviewed and discussed. The significant effect of particle content, dispersion, size, and mean free path on thermomechanical properties, commonly expressed as a function of weight percentage (wt.%) of added particles, was found to be better explained as a function of particle crowding (number of particles and distance among them). From this work, it was possible to conclude that the dramatic effect of particle size for the same tiny amount of very small and well-dispersed particles brings evidence that particle size and the particle weight content should be downscaled together.

Trans-cinnamaldehyde loaded chitosan based nanocapsules display antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against cavity-causing Streptococcus mutans

Background

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease, and the bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is one of the risk factors. The poor effect of existing anti-bacterial is mainly related to drug resistance, the short time of drug action, and biofilm formation.

Methods

To address this concern, we report here on the cinnamaldehyde (CA) loaded chitosan (CS) nanocapsules (CA@CS NC) sustained release CA for antibacterial treatment. The size, ζ-potential, and morphology were characterized. The antibacterial activities in vitro were studied by growth curve assay, pH drop assay, biofilm assay, and qRT-PCR In addition, cytotoxicity assay, organ index, body weight, and histopathology results were analyzed to evaluate the safety and biocompatibility in a rat model.

Results

CA@CS NC can adsorb the bacterial membrane due to electronic interaction, releasing CA slowly for a long time. At the same time, it has reliable antibacterial activity against S. mutans and downregulated the expression levels of QS, virulence, biofilm, and adhesion genes. In addition, it greatly reduced the cytotoxicity of CA and significantly inhibited dental caries in rats without obvious toxicity.

Conclusion

Our results showed that CA@CS NC had antibacterial and antibiofilm effects on S. mutans and inhibit dental caries. Besides, it showed stronger efficacy and less toxicity, and was able to adsorb bacteria releasing CA slowly, providing a new nanomaterial solution for the treatment of dental caries.

Adhesion and Surface Roughness of Apatite-Containing Carbomer and Improved Ionically Bioactive Resin Compared to Glass Ionomers

The surface roughness of different glass-ionomer-based materials and their shear bond strength with a resin composite with and without thermal cycling were evaluated. Ketac Molar (KM, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA), Glass Carbomer (GC, GCP Dental, Leiden, The Netherlands), Bioactive (BA, PULPDENT, Corporation, Watertown, MA, USA) and Fuji II LC (FJ, GC, Tokyo, Japan) were used to prepare the specimens and they were kept in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h. The surface roughness of the specimens was measured with a profilometer (n = 6). A universal adhesive resin was applied on glass-ionomer materials and cylindrical universal composites were applied and polymerized, respectively (n = 16). The specimens were divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup was subjected to thermal cycling. Shear bond strength was investigated for both subgroups (n = 8). Stereomicroscopy and SEM examinations were performed. The roughest surface was obtained in the GC group (p < 0.05). The shear bond strength of the specimens without thermal cycling was higher than that of those with thermal cycling (p < 0.05). The lowest shear bond was measured in the GC group (p < 0.05). Although FJ, KM and BA have been observed to be suitable materials for clinical use, BA, in particular, is evidenced to become the best option among the materials we tested. GC cement's long-term performance needs to be improved.

Analyses of Experimental Dental Adhesives Based on Zirconia/Silver Phosphate Nanoparticles

This study aimed to evaluate the incorporation of zirconia/silver phosphate nanoparticles to develop experimental dental adhesives and to measure their physical and mechanical properties. The nanoparticles were synthesized by the sonication method, and the phase purity, morphological pattern, and antibacterial properties with Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were assessed. The silanized nanoparticles were incorporated (0, 0.15, 0.25, and 0.5 wt.%) into the photoactivated dimethacrylate resins. The degree of conversion (DC) was assessed, followed by the micro-hardness and flexural strength/modulus test. Long-term color stability was investigated. The bond strength with the dentin surface was conducted on days 1 and 30. The transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffractogram confirmed the nano-structure and phase purity of the particles. The nanoparticles showed antibacterial activities against both strains and inhibited biofilm formation. The DC range of the experimental groups was 55-66%. The micro-hardness and flexural strength increased with the concentration of nanoparticles in the resin. The 0.5 wt.% group showed significantly high micro-hardness values, whereas a non-significant difference was observed between the experimental groups for flexural strength. The bond strength was higher on day 1 than on day 30, and a significant difference was observed between the two periods. At day 30, the 0.5 wt.% showed significantly higher values compared to other groups. Long-term color stability was observed for all the samples. The experimental adhesives showed promising results and potential to be used for clinical applications. However, further investigations such as antibacterial, penetration depth, and cytocompatibility are required.

Smart dental materials for antimicrobial applications

Smart biomaterials can sense and react to physiological or external environmental stimuli (e.g., mechanical, chemical, electrical, or magnetic signals). The last decades have seen exponential growth in the use and development of smart dental biomaterials for antimicrobial applications in dentistry. These biomaterial systems offer improved efficacy and controllable bio-functionalities to prevent infections and extend the longevity of dental devices. This review article presents the current state-of-the-art of design, evaluation, advantages, and limitations of bioactive and stimuli-responsive and autonomous dental materials for antimicrobial applications. First, the importance and classification of smart biomaterials are discussed. Second, the categories of bioresponsive antibacterial dental materials are systematically itemized based on different stimuli, including pH, enzymes, light, magnetic field, and vibrations. For each category, their antimicrobial mechanism, applications, and examples are discussed. Finally, we examined the limitations and obstacles required to develop clinically relevant applications of these appealing technologies.

Advances of plant and biomass extracted zirconium nanoparticles in dental implant application

Nanoparticles are minimal materials with unique physicochemical features that set them apart from bulk materials of the same composition. These properties make nanoparticles highly desirable for use in commercial and medical research. The primary intention for the development of nanotechnology is to achieve overarching social objectives like bettering our understanding of nature, boosting productivity, improving healthcare, and extending the bounds of sustainable development and human potential. Keeping this as a motivation, Zirconia nanoparticles are becoming the preferred nanostructure for modern biomedical applications. This nanotechnology is exceptionally versatile and has several potential uses in dental research. This review paper concentrated on the various benefits of zirconium nanoparticles in dentistry and how they provide superior strength and flexibility compared to their counterparts. Moreover, the popularity of zirconium nanoparticles is also growing as it has strong biocompatibility potency. Zirconium nanoparticles can be used to develop or address the major difficulty in dentistry. Therefore, this review paper aims to provide a summary of the fundamental research and applications of zirconium nanoparticles in dental implants.

Recent advances in the use of inorganic nanomaterials as anti caries agents

Caries is the most prevalent and widespread chronic oral disease. Traditional caries filling materials, due to their lack of anti-caries capabilities, can readily develop secondary caries. Nanomaterials proposed as an effective approach for caries treatment can inhibit biofilm formation. It also can not only reduce demineralization but also promote remineralization. In recent years, nanotechnology in anti-caries materials, particularly nano-adhesive and nano-composite resin, has advanced rapidly. Because inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) interfere with bacterial metabolism and inhibit biofilm development, inorganic NPs have emerged as a new trend in dental applications. Metal and metal oxide NPs by releasing metal ions, oxidative stress induction, and non-oxidative mechanisms showed significant antimicrobial activity. For applying metal and metal oxide NPs as anti caries agents, silver, zinc, titanium, copper, and calcium ions have been shown significant attention. Moreover, fluoride functionalized inorganic NPs were also employed to improve their efficacy of them. The fluoride-functionalized NPs can promote remineralization, and inhibit demineralization by enhancing apatite formation. In this review, we have provided an overview and recent advances in the use of inorganic NPs as anti caries agents. Furthermore, their antimicrobial, remineralizing, and mechanical impacts on dental materials were discussed.

May carriers at nanoscale improve the Endodontic's future?

Nanocarriers (NCs) are dynamic nanovehicles used to transport bioactive derivatives like therapeutical formulations, drugs and/or dyes. The current review assists in understanding the mechanism of action of several recent developed NCs with antimicrobial purposes. Here, nine NCs varieties are portrayed with focus on nineteen approaches that are fulfil described based on outcomes obtained from in vitro antimicrobial assays. All approaches have previously been verified and we underline the biochemical challenges of all NCs, expecting that the present data may encourage the application of NCs in endodontic antimicrobial basic research. Methodological limitations and the evident base gaps made not possible to draw a definite conclusion about the best NCs for achieving efficient antimicrobial outcomes in endodontic studies. Due to the lack of pre-clinical trials and the scarce number of clinical trials in this emergent area, there is still much room for improvement on several fronts.

Ceramic Materials for Biomedical Applications: An Overview on Properties and Fabrication Processes

A growing interest in creating advanced biomaterials with specific physical and chemical properties is currently being observed. These high-standard materials must be capable to integrate into biological environments such as the oral cavity or other anatomical regions in the human body. Given these requirements, ceramic biomaterials offer a feasible solution in terms of mechanical strength, biological functionality, and biocompatibility. In this review, the fundamental physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of the main ceramic biomaterials and ceramic nanocomposites are drawn, along with some primary related applications in biomedical fields, such as orthopedics, dentistry, and regenerative medicine. Furthermore, an in-depth focus on bone-tissue engineering and biomimetic ceramic scaffold design and fabrication is presented.

Antibacterial Properties In Vitro of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles for Dental Applications

(1) Dental caries, periodontitis, or peri-implantitis are commensal infections related to oral biofilm former bacteria. Likewise, magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) were studied to introduce them to the antibacterial properties of a few microorganisms. Considering this, the purpose of the present investigation was to determine the antibacterial properties of MgO-NPs on representative oral strains. (2) Methods: MgO-NPs with a cubic crystal structure were obtained by magnesium hydroxide mechanical activation. After synthesis, the MgO-NPs product was annealed at 800 °C (2 h). The MgO-NPs obtained were tested against ten oral ATCC strains at ten serial concentrations (1:1 20.0-0.039 mg/mL per triplicate) using the micro-broth dilution method to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) or minimal bactericidal concentration (MIB). Measures of OD595 were compared against each positive control with a Student's t-test. Viability was corroborated by colony-forming units. (3) Results: The polycrystalline structure had an average size of 21 nm as determined by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (high resolution). Antimicrobial sensitivity was observed in Capnocytophaga gingivalis (MIB/MIC 10-5 mg/mL), Eikenella corrodens (MIB 10 mg/mL), and Streptococcus sanguinis (MIB 20 mg/mL) at high concentrations of the MgO-NPs and at lower concentrations of the MgO-NPs in Actinomyces israelii (MIB 0.039 mg/mL), Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. nucleatum (MIB/MIC 5-2.5 mg/mL), Porphyromonas gingivalis (MIB 20 mg/mL/MIC 2.5 mg/mL), Prevotella intermedia (MIB 0.625 mg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 2.5 mg/mL), Streptococcus mutans (MIB 20 mg/mL/MIC 0.321 mg/mL), and Streptococcus sobrinus (MIB/MIC 5-2.5 mg/mL). (4) Conclusions: The MgO-NPs' reported antibacterial properties in all oral biofilm strains were evaluated for potential use in dental applications.

Translucency and Color Stability of a Simplified Shade Nanohybrid Composite after Ultrasonic Scaling and Air-Powder Polishing

We aimed to assess the influence of professional dental prophylaxis on the translucency and color stability of a novel simplified shade nanohybrid composite material. Sixty composite disks (5 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick) of light (n = 30) and dark (n = 30) shades were prepared. The specimens were randomly divided into the following three groups (n = 10) according to the prophylaxis procedure used: ultrasonic scaling, air-powder polishing with sodium bicarbonate, and controls. The specimens were submitted to translucency and color analysis based on the CIELab system. Two measurements were performed before and after 48-h storage in coffee. Translucency values of untreated light and dark specimens were 9.15 ± 0.38 and 5.28 ± 1.10, respectively. Air-powder polishing decreased the translucency of the light composite specimens. Storage in coffee resulted in color changes (∆E) ranging between 2.69 and 12.05 and a mean translucency decrease ranging between -0.88 and -6.91. The samples in the light group tended to exhibit greater staining; the treatment method had no effect on ∆E. It can be concluded that light-shade composite restorations are more prone to translucency and color changes resulting from air-powder polishing and contact with staining media. However, further research using other composites and powders is required.

Recent advances in targeted delivery of non-coding RNA-based therapeutics for atherosclerosis

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has overtaken infectious illnesses as the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. The pathology that underpins CVD is atherosclerosis, characterized by chronic inflammation caused by the accumulation of plaques in the arteries. As our knowledge about the microenvironment of blood vessel walls deepens, there is an opportunity to fine-tune treatments to target the mechanisms driving atherosclerosis more directly. The application of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) as biomarkers or intervention targets is increasing. Although these ncRNAs play an important role in driving atherosclerosis and vascular dysfunction, the cellular and extracellular environments pose a challenge for targeted transmission and therapeutic regulation of ncRNAs. Specificity, delivery, and tolerance have hampered the clinical translation of ncRNA-based therapeutics. Nanomedicine is an emerging field that uses nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery and advanced imaging. Recently, nanoscale carriers have shown promising results and have introduced new possibilities for nucleic acid targeted drug delivery, particularly for atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss the latest developments in nanoparticles to aid ncRNA-based drug development, particularly miRNA, and we analyze the current challenges in ncRNA targeted delivery. In particular, we highlight the emergence of various kinds of nanotherapeutic approaches based on ncRNAs, which can improve treatment options for atherosclerosis.

Folate Decorated Multifunctional Biodegradable Nanoparticles for Gastric Carcinoma Active Targeting Theranostics

Introduction

Gastric cancer remains a major clinical issue and little progress has been made in the treatment of gastric cancer patients during recent decades. Nanoparticles provide a versatile platform for the diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer.

Methods

We prepared 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) ¹²⁵I-radiolabelled biodegradable nanoparticles with folate surface modification (¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs) as a novel nanoplatform for targeted gastric carcinoma theranostics. We characterized this system in terms of particle size, morphology, radiostability, and release properties and examined the in vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake properties of ¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs in MNK 7 and NCI-N7 cells. The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of ¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs were imaged by single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT). An MNK7 tumor-bearing model were established and the in vivo antitumor activity of ¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs was evaluated.

Results

SN-38 was readily radiolabeled with ¹²⁵I and exhibited high radiostability. Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were formed by solvent exchange, and displayed spherical morphology of 100 nm in diameter as characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A 2.5-fold greater uptake of ¹²⁵I-radiolabelled SN-38-loaded folate-decorated PLGA nanoparticles (¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs) than ¹²⁵I-radiolabelled SN-38-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (¹²⁵I-SN-38-NPs) were record in MKN7 tumor cells. NPs and folate-decorated PLGA nanoparticles (FA-NPs) also had good biocompatibility in methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assays. Pharmacokinetic, biodistribution and SPECT imaging studies showed that ¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs had prolonged circulation, were distributed in the reticuloendothelial system, and had high uptake in tumors with a higher tumor accumulation of ¹²⁵I-SN-38-FA-NPs than ¹²⁵I-SN-38-NPs recorded at 24 h postinjection. In vivo SN-38-FA-NPs significantly inhibited tumor growth without causing obvious side effects.

Conclusion

Folate receptor alpha (FOLR1) targeted drug-loaded nanoparticles enable SPECT imaging and chemotherapy, and provide a novel nanoplatform for gastric carcinoma active targeting theranostics.

Emergence of Nano-Dentistry as a Reality of Contemporary Dentistry

(1) Background. Nanotechnology offers significant alternative ways to solve scientific, medical, and human health issues. Dental biomaterials were improved by nanotechnology. It manufactures better materials or improves the existing ones and forms the basis of novel methods for disease diagnosis and prevention. Modern nanotechnology makes oral health care services more acceptable for patients. Nanotechnology is now important area of research, covering a broad range of applications in dentistry. (2) Methods. Relevant literature from Scopus published in English was selected using the keywords “nanoparticle” and “dentistry”. To the selected articles we applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria to choose the relevant ones. (3) Results. Based on the relevant articles, a literature review was prepared. This review provides an insight into the applications of nanotechnology in various branches of dentistry. We applied several regression models to fit number of papers versus time and chose the best one. We used it to construct the forecast and its 95%-confidence interval for the number of publications in 2022–2026. (4) Conclusions. It shows that a significant rise in papers is expected. This review familiarizes dentists with properties and benefits of nanomaterials and nanotechnology. Additionally, it can help scientists to consider the direction of their research and to plan prospective research projects.

In Vitro Studies concerning Selected Properties of a Composite Material Blended with Nanofluoroapatite Crystals

The aim of the paper was to determine the potential for fluorine release from an original composite material blended with nanofluoroapatite (FAp). The level of fluoride ion emission into deionized water and saline was studied over a period of 12 weeks. Values were recorded after 1, 3, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h and then weekly for a period of 12 weeks. There were statistically significant differences in the periods of fluoride ion release from 5%FAp and 2%FAp materials into saline solution as well as into deionized water. The highest fluorine release from 5%FAp + polymer was observed in the 10th and 11th week of incubation (for saline solution) and in the 9th, 10th, and 11th week (for deionized water). The highest fluorine release from 2%FAp + polymer was observed in the 9th, 11th, and 12th week of incubation for both environments. Total fluoride ion release from 5%FAp + polymer and mean fluoride release levels were similar in 5%FAp and 2%FAp in both environments. Both tested materials (5%FAp and 2%FAp) show the ability to release fluoride ions over a long time in the experimental environment.

The Effect of Ultrasonic Scaling and Air-Powder Polishing on the Roughness of the Enamel, Three Different Nanocomposites, and Composite/Enamel and Composite/Cementum Interfaces

We aimed to assess the effects of ultrasonic scaling and air-powder polishing on the roughness of enamel, three nanocomposites (Premise, Herculite Ultra, Harmonize), and composite/enamel and composite/cementum interfaces. Class V cavities were restored in 99 extracted third molars with one of the three nanocomposites and treated with ultrasonic scaler or air-powder polishing device (calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate powders). The roughness (Ra) of the investigated surfaces was measured with contact profilometer before and after treatment. The data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Specimens' Ra values before instrumentation were near the clinically acceptable 0.2 μm threshold. All techniques increased the roughness of the tested surfaces; however, the enamel was slightly affected. The mean Ra values after prophylaxis for composite, composite/cementum and composite/enamel surfaces were 0.32-0.55, 1.33-1.73, and 1.25-1.36, respectively. The extent of composite surface damage was material dependent. Premise surface was not altered by ultrasonic scaling significantly. Air-powder polishing with both powders produced a greater increase in surface roughness of composite resin and restorations margins than ultrasonic scaling. The Ra values after both types of air polishing for Herculite Ultra and Harmonize were approximately 1.5 and 2 times higher, respectively, than those after ultrasonic scaling (p < 0.05).

Polysaccharide-Based Micro- and Nanosized Drug Delivery Systems for Potential Application in the Pediatric Dentistry

The intensive development of micro- and nanotechnologies in recent years has offered a wide horizon of new possibilities for drug delivery in dentistry. The use of polymeric drug carriers turned out to be a very successful technique for formulating micro- and nanoparticles with controlled or targeted drug release in the oral cavity. Such innovative strategies have the potential to provide an improved therapeutic approach to prevention and treatment of various oral diseases not only for adults, but also in the pediatric dental practice. Due to their biocompatibility, biotolerance and biodegradability, naturally occurring polysaccharides like chitosan, alginate, pectin, dextran, starch, etc., are among the most preferred materials for preparation of micro- and nano-devices for drug delivery, offering simple particle-forming characteristics and easily tunable properties of the formulated structures. Their low immunogenicity and low toxicity provide an advantage over most synthetic polymers for the development of pediatric formulations. This review is focused on micro- and nanoscale polysaccharide biomaterials as dental drug carriers, with an emphasis on their potential application in pediatric dentistry.