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Nanomaterials in preventive dentistry

Nature Nanotechnology volume 5, pages 565–569 (2010)Cite this article

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Abstract

The prevention of tooth decay and the treatment of lesions and cavities are ongoing challenges in dentistry. In recent years, biomimetic approaches have been used to develop nanomaterials for inclusion in a variety of oral health-care products. Examples include liquids and pastes that contain nano-apatites for biofilm management at the tooth surface, and products that contain nanomaterials for the remineralization of early submicrometre-sized enamel lesions. However, the treatment of larger visible cavities with nanomaterials is still at the research stage. Here, we review progress in the development of nanomaterials for different applications in preventive dentistry and research, including clinical trials.

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Figure 1: Bioadhesion and biofilm management in the oral cavity.
Figure 2: Early stages of tooth decay caused by bacterial biofilm.
Figure 3: Hierarchical structure of the dental enamel.
Figure 4: Dental erosion caused by acidic beverages or food in the oral cavity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Clinic of Operative Dentistry, Periodontology and Preventive Dentistry, University Hospital, Saarland University, Building 73, Homburg/Saar, D-66421, Germany

    Matthias Hannig

  2. Clinic of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine 'Carl Gustav Carus', Technical University Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, Dresden, 01307, Germany

    Christian Hannig

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Correspondence to Matthias Hannig.

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Hannig, M., Hannig, C. Nanomaterials in preventive dentistry. Nature Nanotech 5, 565–569 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/nnano.2010.83

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