Non-metallic biomaterials for tooth repair and replacement

  • P. Valittu
(ed) Woodhead Publishing price £145.00; pp 432 ISBN 9780857092441 | ISBN: 978-0-8570-9244-1

This book is a presentation of cutting edge research and evidence-based developments in non-metallic biomaterials for tooth repair and replacement. Its aim is to inspire students, clinicians and researchers to learn advances in the field and consider current, evidence-based research findings. It guides clinicians on how to provide a reliable replacement for anatomic loss by implementing treatment modalities that preserve and parallel the natural biology. The authorship is diverse and includes well known names from across the globe, and the editor is a world renowned author of numerous publications in the field of dental biomaterials.

Thirteen chapters are split into three distinct but related sections. Section one features the unique physical properties of enamel and dentin. The author details the biomineralisation and biomimicry of tooth enamel in which some preceding beliefs and teachings are challenged. The second section details the properties of ceramic dental biomaterials, sol-gel bioactive glass ceramics and its numerous applications in dentistry. The third section details in depth composite restorative materials, which include antibacterial composite materials and composite-based oral implants.

The beginning of each chapter starts with an abstract, which discusses the topic mentioned and its relevance, to aid the reader in the application of the information. New key words are also introduced. It then gives a concise introduction that is then divided into subtopics, explored to a great depth in a logistical fashion and heavily referenced. The illustrations and diagrams aid understanding of the subtopics, with footnotes providing a useful outline of each figure. Conclusions summarise at the end of the chapter and the reference lists offer the chance for further reading and analysis.

The book highlights the evolving nature of non-metallic biomaterials in dentistry. The reader is made mindful of the importance of acknowledging progress in the field and the value in responding to advances in the theory underpinning the method of tooth repair and replacements. This is a stimulating, informative read with a constructive purpose, delightful to study in its entirety and easy to dip into.

This book is a valuable addition to any dental library and is an essential reference for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers and fully qualified dentists wishing to consolidate their appreciation of non-metallic biomaterials and keep abreast of advances in the field. It certainly encourages the current and future generations to investigate and prove these concepts and ideas wrong or to push them forwards.