Functional Biomaterials and Digital Technologies in Dentistry: From Bench to Bedside

This Special Issue, "Functional Biomaterials and Digital Technologies in Dentistry: From Bench to Bedside", highlights the integration of advanced materials science and digital technologies in dental and maxillofacial applications [...].

The thematic focus of "Functional Biomaterials and Digital Technologies in Dentistry: From Bench to Bedside" is deliberate and dictated by the revolutionary developments in the field.Dentistry is currently at the cusp of a transformative epoch, fueled by material science, engineering, and computer science.These disciplines are pivotal in sculpting the future of dental science.Functional biomaterials, recognized for their enhanced biocompatibility, robust mechanical properties, and tailored biofunctionality, are paving the way for groundbreaking developments in oral and maxillofacial treatments.Furthermore, digital technologies have catalyzed a revolutionary shift in various healthcare sectors, including dentistry.Sophisticated methodologies such as CAD/CAM, 3D printing, bioprinting, and dental virtual patients have emerged as powerful tools, substantially improving the accuracy of procedures, patient experiences, and efficiency of dental care.

Special Issue of "Functional Biomaterials and Digital Technologies in Dentistry:
From Bench to Bedside"

Functional Biomaterials in Dentistry
Within the field of dentistry, a diverse range of biomaterials-including metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites-is commonly utilized in creating dental implants, dental resin, osteosynthesis implants, and scaffolds for both bone and soft tissue regeneration [1][2][3].Ongoing developments and investigations of new materials are propelled by their intrinsic biofunctional properties, which hold the promise to enhance clinical outcomes significantly [4,5].

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Surface modification of dental implant abutment: In this Special Issue, Wen et al.
(contribution 5) investigated the impact of UVC (100-280 nm) pre-treatment on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.gingivalis) interactions with Ti-based implant surfaces.The results indicated that UVC pre-treatment improves HGF adhesion and proliferation while diminishing P. gingivalis colonization on smooth Ti substrates relative to untreated controls.

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Optimization of dental resin: Within this Special Issue, Bourgi et al. (contribution 10) investigated the influence of varying temperatures of warm air on solvent evaporation from dental adhesives and its subsequent effect on the bond strength of resin-based materials to dental and nondental substrates.The systematic review of in vitro studies identified that the optimal temperature range for a warm air stream to promote solvent removal and enhance adhesion to dentin is between 50 and 60 • C.

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Biodegradable metals for osteosynthesis implant: Zinc (Zn)-based biodegradable materials are emerging for use in osteosynthesis implants, despite inconsistencies between in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility [6,7].In this Special Issue, Liu et al.
(contribution 9) examined the cytotoxic potential of Zn and its alloys, revealing no harmful effects under specific conditions.Of note, the systematic review highlighted significant inconsistencies in cytotoxicity testing approaches.(contribution 1) probe the cytotoxic effects of black phosphorus nanosheets on vascular endothelial cells for tissue regeneration, uncovering a mechanism driven by excessive reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial dysfunction leading to cell apoptosis.

Digital Technologies in Dentistry
Digital dentistry revolutionizes patient care by enhancing diagnostics with CAI and CBCT, and improving restorations via CAD/CAM for quicker, more precise outcomes [9].Integrated digital workflows boost treatment predictability and efficiency, while 3D printing, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotic surgery offer customized treatments, significantly enhancing patient outcomes and experiences.

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Computer-aided imaging CAI technology in dentistry enhances diagnosis and treatment planning through advanced digital imaging, such as intraoral scans and CBCT [10,11].This technology provides precise visual data for better patient outcomes.Saravi et al.'s study evaluated the use of computerized optical impression making (COIM) in partially edentulous jaws, highlighting potential deviations in prosthetics involving mucosal tissues.Yuan et al. reported on the successful integration of stomatognathic data from various devices for creating dynamic virtual patients, showcasing the advancements and considerations in CAI applications (contribution 11).

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Computer-aided design and manufacturing CAD/CAM technology in dentistry represents a transformative approach to dental restoration, offering a streamlined process from design to production.In this issue, Wang et al. (contribution 4) investigated the adhesion characteristics of a 3D-printed polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material.Their findings suggested that surface texture alone does not exclusively dictate the adhesion qualities of additively produced PEEK.Additionally, Chen et al. (contribution 7) provided a comprehensive review of the evolution of obturator fabrication for oronasal fistulas following cleft palate repair, tracing its progression from manual craft to the implementation of advanced digital methodologies.

Summary
Through curating this Special Issue, we place a spotlight on the fusion of functional biomaterials and digital advancements as a decisive force propelling dental care forwards.Offering treatments that are more personalized, efficient, and effective, these technologies align with the broader transition towards precision medicine.The customization of treatments to meet individual needs, utilizing biomaterials with superior biocompatibility and mechanical properties, is expected to improve health outcomes significantly.Additionally, the incorporation of digital technologies in dentistry is set to transform the intricacies of diagnostics and treatment, making dental care more accessible and cost-effective.This Special Issue not only provides an overview of current research and development in the field but also shines a light on potential shifts in dental care.Looking forwards, the intersection of functional biomaterials and digital technology is poised to redefine the future of dental and maxillofacial treatments, ensuring advanced care for patients worldwide.

Author Contributions:
Conceptualization, A.L. and P.L.; writing-original draft preparation, P.L.; writing-review and editing, A.L.; supervision, P.L. and G.W.; project administration, P.L. and S.X.; funding acquisition, A.L. and P.L.All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.Funding: This research was supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 82301134], Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation [grant numbers 2021A1515111140 and 2021B1515120059], Science and Technology Projects in Guangzhou [grant number 202102080148], Guangzhou Health Commission Clinical Major Technology Project [grant number 2023C-ZD07], and Clinical Research Initiation Plan of the Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University [grant number KQIIT2021001].