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| Introduction |
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| Tooth restoration is crucial in dental treatment, aiming to restore the natural structure and function of teeth. Dental composite resins, composed of dimethacrylate monomers and multi-functional fillers, provide a versatile, aesthetic, and durable alternative to traditional materials. The incorporation of nanofillers enhances these composites by increasing strength, wear resistance, and reducing polymerization shrinkage. |
| This article aims to review the advancements brought by modern nano-materials to dental composite resins compared to other filler materials1. |
| Why Nano-Materials? |
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| Nano Materials in Restorative Dentistry1 |
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Manipulates atomic properties for unique dental applications. |
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Utilizes natural tooth structure for nano-material research. |
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Focuses on improving dental treatments with nano-scale materials. |
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Enhances restoration durability and strength with nanocomposites. |
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Explores applications in composites, cement, and sealers. |
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Benefits include improved mechanical properties and reduced polymerization shrinkage. |
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| Type |
Description |
| Organic Nanomaterials |
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| Polymeric Nanomaterials |
Polymers structured at the nanoscale. |
| Lipid-based Nanomaterials |
Nanostructures utilizing lipid components. |
| Inorganic Nanomaterials |
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| Metal Nanomaterials |
Nanoscale metals with unique properties. |
| Metal Oxides Nanomaterials |
Oxides of metals at the nanoscale. |
| Ceramic Nanomaterials |
Nano-sized ceramic materials. |
| Semiconductor-based Nanomaterials |
Semiconducting materials structured at the nanoscale. |
| Carbon-based Nanomaterials |
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| Fullerenes |
Spherical carbon molecules (e.g., buckyballs). |
| Graphene |
Single-layer carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. |
| Carbon Nanotubes |
Cylindrical carbon structures with unique properties. |
| Carbon Black |
Fine carbon particles used in various applications. |
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| Modern dental materials are increasingly functional, designed for active roles and purposeful modifications to enhance effectiveness. Smart materials in dentistry preserve tooth structure conservatively, with properties like bacteriostatic capabilities and responsiveness to environmental changes2. |
| Smart Material Type |
Description |
Properties |
| Passive Smart Material |
Reacts to Environment Passively |
Forms Biofilm, Acts as a Barrier |
| Active Smart Material |
Uses Feedback Mechanisms |
pH-Sensitive, Changes Shape |
| Examples: |
Properties |
|
| Smart Composites |
Responsive to Environment Changes |
Piezoelectric, Shape Memory |
| Glass Ionomer Cement |
Forms Biofilm, Fluoride-Releasing |
Photochromic, Thermochromic |
| Resin-Modified GIC |
Bioactive, Improves Bond Strength |
Magnetorheological, pH-Sensitive |
| Compomers |
Combines Composite and GIC Properties |
Biofilm-Resistant, Aesthetic |
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| Type |
Key Points |
| Smart Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) |
Absorbs/discharges solvent (temp., pH, pressure). Minimal dimensional changes in moisture/heat. Fluoride-releasing for remineralization. CPP-ACP modification enhances strength and remineralization. |
| Smart Composites |
Nano-filled composites release ions (hydroxyl, calcium, fluoride) below pH 5.5. Used in primary/permanent teeth, Class 1 & 2 restorations. |
| Smart Ceramics |
Metal-free, biocompatible ceramics (e.g., zirconia) with CAD/CAM precision. Mica-based glass-ceramics for machinability. |
| Smart Nickel-Titanium Files |
NiTi alloys exhibit superelasticity, shape memory. Ease root canal preparation with minimal deformation. |
| Smart Seal Obturation System |
Hydrophilic obturation points/sealers prevent reinfection. C Point system enhances sealing with polymorphic materials. |
| Smart Paste Bio |
Resin-based sealant with bioceramics. Hydrophilic, antibacterial, and non-resorbable. Enhances sealing and dimensional stability. |
| Smart Impression Material |
Vinylsiloxanether and fast-set elastomers offer hydrophilic and thixotropic properties for accurate, void-free impressions. |
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| Key Findings: |
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Nano-enhanced dental composites improve aesthetics, durability, and reduce shrinkage compared to traditional materials, utilizing nanofillers to enhance mechanical properties. |
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Smart materials offer biofilm resistance, fluoride release for remineralization, and shape memory, revolutionizing dental treatments with conservative approaches. |
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| GGI-CO-A1-AQS-300032384-WM-G24-0537 |
| References: |
| 1. |
Mandhalkar R, Paul P, Reche A. Application of nanomaterials in restorative dentistry. Cureus. 2023 Jan;15(1).
Click here to view the original article |
| 2. |
Maloo LM, Patel A, Toshniwal SH, Bagde AD. Smart materials leading to restorative dentistry: an overview. Cureus. 2022 Oct;14(10). Click here to view the original article |
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