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Review

Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review

1
Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
2
School of Dentistry, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011
Submission received: 1 December 2025 / Revised: 18 December 2025 / Accepted: 22 December 2025 / Published: 23 December 2025
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)

Abstract

Conventional dental materials with organised crystal structures exhibit limitations in corrosion resistance, bioactivity, and drug delivery capability. In contrast, amorphous nanomaterials offer potential advantages in overcoming these limitations due to their unique structural properties. They are characterised by a non-crystalline, disordered atomic structure and are similar to a solidified liquid at the nanoscale. Among the amorphous nanomaterials used in dentistry, there are five major categories: calcium-, silicon-, magnesium-, zirconia-, and polymer-based systems. This study reviewed these amorphous nanomaterials by investigating their synthesis, properties, applications, limitations, and future directions in dentistry. These amorphous nanomaterials are synthesised primarily through low-temperature methods, including sol–gel processes, rapid precipitation, and electrochemical etching, which prevent atomic arrangements into crystalline structures. The resulting disordered atomic configuration confers exceptional properties, including enhanced solubility, superior drug-loading capacity, high surface reactivity, and controlled biodegradability. These characteristics enable diverse dental applications. Calcium-based amorphous nanomaterials, particularly amorphous calcium phosphate, demonstrate the ability to remineralise tooth enamel. Silicon-based amorphous nanomaterials function as carriers that can release antibacterial agents in response to stimuli. Magnesium-based amorphous nanomaterials are antibacterial and support natural bone regeneration. Zirconia-based amorphous nanomaterials strengthen the mechanical properties of restorative materials. Polymer-based amorphous nanomaterials enable controlled release of medications over extended periods. Despite the advances in these amorphous nanomaterials, there are limitations regarding material stability over time, precise control of degradation rates in the oral environment, and the development of reliable large-scale manufacturing processes. Researchers are creating smart materials that respond to specific oral conditions and developing hybrid systems that combine the strengths of different nanomaterials. In summary, amorphous nanomaterials hold great promise for advancing dental treatments through their unique properties and versatile applications. Clinically, these materials could improve the durability, bioactivity, and targeted drug delivery in dental restorations and therapies, leading to better patient outcomes.
Keywords: amorphous; nanomaterials; dentistry; non-crystalline; calcium amorphous; nanomaterials; dentistry; non-crystalline; calcium

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MDPI and ACS Style

Yin, I.X.; Niu, J.Y.; Xu, V.W.; Yu, O.Y.; Zhao, I.S.; Chu, C.H. Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review. J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17, 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011

AMA Style

Yin IX, Niu JY, Xu VW, Yu OY, Zhao IS, Chu CH. Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Functional Biomaterials. 2026; 17(1):11. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011

Chicago/Turabian Style

Yin, Iris Xiaoxue, John Yun Niu, Veena Wenqing Xu, Ollie Yiru Yu, Irene Shuping Zhao, and Chun Hung Chu. 2026. "Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review" Journal of Functional Biomaterials 17, no. 1: 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011

APA Style

Yin, I. X., Niu, J. Y., Xu, V. W., Yu, O. Y., Zhao, I. S., & Chu, C. H. (2026). Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Functional Biomaterials, 17(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011

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