“Bioactive Dental Composites And Bonding Agents”

Abstract

Existing dental restorative materials are largely inert and used to restore lost tooth components. In this article, we will look back at the progress that has been made on a new class of bioactive materials that can not only restore the loss of tooth structure but also serve as therapeutic agents. Replacement of lost minerals, inhibition of recurrent caries, neutralization of acids, repulsion of proteins, suppression of biofilms and acid production, demonstration of low cytotoxicity similar to current resins, protection of dental pulp, and promotion of tertiary dentin formation are all possible with remineralizing and antibacterial composites and bonding agents. The ability to ion release and prevent caries is a promising use for this emerging class of bioactive materials.