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Biomimetics
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Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026
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Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026

A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomimetics of Materials and Structures".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2026) | Viewed by 5699

Editor

Dr. Nefeli Lagopati

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
Interests: nanomedicine; nanotechnology; biomaterials; cancer
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce a new Special Issue titled “Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026”.

New technologies, such as digital devices, are available to enhance the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment in dentistry and in the entire craniofacial district in the field of biomimetic design, constructions, devices, and operations.

The application of new biomaterials and techniques can lead to a significant advance in all the main dental branches, such as restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, oral surgery, implantology, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and temporomandibular disorder patients.

Authors conducting studies on these themes are welcome to submit original research articles, reviews, short communications, case series, and case reports to this Special Issue.

Dr. Nefeli Lagopati
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomimetics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biomimetics
  • prosthodontic
  • implants
  • oral surgery
  • plastic surgery
  • orthodontic
  • biomaterials
  • pediatric dentistry
  • temporomandibular disorders
  • restorative dentistry
  • bruxism
  • bone regeneration
  • scaffolds
  • technologies
  • digital
  • telemedicine

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 3052 KB  
Article
Rehabilitation of the Severely Atrophic Maxilla with Subperiosteal Implants: A Biomechanical and Decision Analysis of Material and Configuration Choices
by Barış Erkut Türk, Bersu Bedirhandede, Dilan Gizem Doğan and Beyza Güney
Biomimetics 2026, 11(6), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11060433 - 18 Jun 2026
Viewed by 432
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patient-specific subperiosteal implants are increasingly used to treat severely atrophic ridges due to advances in digital planning and additive manufacturing. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of material type and implant configuration on stress distribution in subperiosteal implant systems and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patient-specific subperiosteal implants are increasingly used to treat severely atrophic ridges due to advances in digital planning and additive manufacturing. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of material type and implant configuration on stress distribution in subperiosteal implant systems and to compare their overall biomechanical performance using a multi-criteria decision framework. Methods: A three-dimensional model of a severely atrophic maxilla was reconstructed to simulate four clinical scenarios combining two configurations (one-piece and two-piece) and two materials (titanium and 60% carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone). Finite element analysis was conducted to assess stress distribution within the implant body, fixation screws, prosthetic framework, and surrounding bone under vertical and oblique loading conditions. Maximum and minimum principal stresses were evaluated in bone, whereas von Mises stresses were calculated for implant components. The resulting biomechanical indicators were subsequently integrated using an entropy weight–TOPSIS multi-criteria decision analysis. Results: Principal stresses in the surrounding bone showed minimal variation between titanium and 60% carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone across all configurations. Implant configuration had a more pronounced effect on implant body stress. Under oblique loading, the two-piece configuration demonstrated substantially higher implant stresses than the one-piece design, whereas under vertical loading, lower implant stresses were observed in the two-piece configuration. The multi-criteria analysis ranked the one-piece titanium model highest under oblique loading and the two-piece titanium model highest under vertical loading. Conclusions: Implant configuration and loading direction influenced biomechanical behavior more than material selection in patient-specific subperiosteal implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026)
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13 pages, 1253 KB  
Article
Single-Cone vs. Carrier-Based Root Canal Obturation with a Calcium-Silicate-Based Sealer: An In Vitro µ-CT Analysis
by Vincenzo Tosco, Riccardo Monterubbianesi, Michele Furlani, Andrea Spinelli, Fausto Zamparini and Giovanna Orsini
Biomimetics 2026, 11(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11020152 - 19 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1261
Abstract
The introduction of calcium-silicate-based sealers has renewed interest in simplified obturation protocols such as the single-cone technique, although warm techniques, including carrier-based obturation, are still considered the gold standard. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the quality of root [...] Read more.
The introduction of calcium-silicate-based sealers has renewed interest in simplified obturation protocols such as the single-cone technique, although warm techniques, including carrier-based obturation, are still considered the gold standard. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the quality of root canal obturation achieved with single-cone and carrier-based techniques when used with the same calcium-silicate-based sealer. Thirty extracted mandibular molars were prepared using a standardized rotary instrumentation protocol and randomly assigned to two groups (n = 15 each): Group A was obturated using a carrier-based technique (Soft-Core obturators), while Group B was obturated with the single-cone technique. All canals were filled with the same calcium-silicate-based sealer (NeoSEALER Flo). Micro–computed tomography was used to evaluate the number and volume of voids of the obturation. Quantitative analysis showed that Group A exhibited a significantly lower number of voids (9.0 ± 5.0) and reduced total void volume (2.58 ± 0.8 mm3) compared with Group B (22.0 ± 10.1 voids; 4.71 ± 1.1 mm3; p = 0.00002 and p = 0.0026, respectively). Qualitative analysis confirmed that carrier-based obturation achieved a denser and more homogeneous filling, while the single-cone technique showed larger voids mainly in the coronal and middle thirds. Both techniques provided a reliable apical seal. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, carrier-based obturation demonstrated superior overall filling quality compared with the single-cone technique when used with a calcium-silicate-based sealer, particularly in the middle and coronal regions of the root canal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026)
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21 pages, 6239 KB  
Article
Impact of RAMPA Therapy on Nasal Cavity Expansion and Paranasal Drainage: Fluid Mechanics Analysis, CAE Simulation, and a Case Study
by Mohammad Moshfeghi, Yasushi Mitani, Yuko Okai-Kojima and Bumkyoo Choi
Biomimetics 2026, 11(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11010005 - 23 Dec 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1129
Abstract
Background: Impaired mucus drainage from the paranasal sinuses is often associated with nasal obstruction and reduced airway function in growing patients. Orthopedic maxillary protraction and expansion techniques can enhance airway dynamics, but their underlying fluid–structure mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. Objective: To validate that [...] Read more.
Background: Impaired mucus drainage from the paranasal sinuses is often associated with nasal obstruction and reduced airway function in growing patients. Orthopedic maxillary protraction and expansion techniques can enhance airway dynamics, but their underlying fluid–structure mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. Objective: To validate that the Right Angle Maxillary Protraction Appliance (RAMPA), combined with a semi-rapid maxillary expansion (sRME) intraoral device gHu-1, improves mucus drainage by enhancing nasal airflow through nasal cavity expansion. Methods: The effects of RAMPA therapy were analyzed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for single-phase (air) and two-phase (air–mucus) flows within the nasal cavity, employing the unsteady RANS turbulence model. Finite element method (FEM) results from prior studies were synthesized to assess changes in the center and radius of maxillary rotation induced by RAMPA-assisted sRME. A male patient (aged 8 years 7 months to 11 years 7 months) treated with extraoral RAMPA and the intraoral appliance (gHu-1) underwent pre- and post-treatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) evaluation. Results: FEM analysis revealed an increased radius and elevated center of maxillary rotation, producing expansion that was more parallel to the palatal plane. CFD simulations showed that nasal cavity expansion increased airflow velocity and pressure drop, enhancing the suction effect that promotes mucus clearance from the frontal sinus. Clinically, nasal passages widened, paranasal opacities resolved, and occlusal and intermolar widths improved. Conclusions: RAMPA combined with sRME improves nasal airflow and maxillary skeletal expansion, facilitating paranasal mucus clearance and offering a promising adjunctive approach for enhancing upper airway function in growing patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026)
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Review

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28 pages, 4689 KB  
Review
3D-Bioprinted Multifunctional Nanocomposite Scaffolds for Alveolar Bone–Periodontal Ligament–Root Cementum Regeneration: A Narrative Review
by Angeliki Tsantiri, Nikolaos I. Mourkiotis, Hector Katifelis, Xanthippi Dereka, Maria Gazouli and Nefeli Lagopati
Biomimetics 2026, 11(6), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11060425 - 15 Jun 2026
Viewed by 419
Abstract
Periodontal disease remains one of the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide, highlighting the need for effective regeneration of alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum. The structural complexity and unique biological behavior of these tissues have historically posed significant challenges for clinical regeneration [...] Read more.
Periodontal disease remains one of the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide, highlighting the need for effective regeneration of alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum. The structural complexity and unique biological behavior of these tissues have historically posed significant challenges for clinical regeneration strategies. The primary therapeutic approach used is guided bone regeneration; however, it has certain limitations, such as morbidity, low structural integrity and dimensional stability. Recent advances in 3-dimensional (3D) bioprinting have made it possible to fabricate customized scaffolds with precise architecture and spatial organization that closely mimic normal periodontal structures. The incorporation of multifunctional nanocomposite biomaterials and nanoparticles further enhances the performance of the scaffolds by increasing mechanical strength, bioactivity and controlling degradation rates. These advanced scaffolds function as dynamic microenvironments that support cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation, ultimately promoting tissue regeneration. Furthermore, their multifunctional properties allow for the controlled release of growth factors, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents, as well as the incorporation of stem cells and bioactive molecules that facilitate angiogenesis. This review investigates and critically evaluates modern approaches for the regeneration of periodontal tissues through scaffolds, biomaterials and 3D bioprinting technologies, as well as to assess their effectiveness compared to established clinical practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026)
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15 pages, 1135 KB  
Review
Current Applications and Future Perspectives of Artificial Intelligence in Face-Driven Orthodontics: A Scoping Review
by Barbora Heribanová, Katarína Janáková, Juraj Tomášik, Daniela Tichá, Štefan Harsányi and Andrej Thurzo
Biomimetics 2026, 11(2), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11020146 - 16 Feb 2026
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1869
Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has introduced transformative possibilities in orthodontics by enhancing diagnostic precision, treatment planning, and aesthetic outcomes. In face-driven orthodontics, treatment objectives extend beyond achieving proper occlusion to optimizing facial balance and harmony. With the growing patient demand for aesthetic improvements, AI [...] Read more.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has introduced transformative possibilities in orthodontics by enhancing diagnostic precision, treatment planning, and aesthetic outcomes. In face-driven orthodontics, treatment objectives extend beyond achieving proper occlusion to optimizing facial balance and harmony. With the growing patient demand for aesthetic improvements, AI technologies enable clinicians to integrate facial analysis and dynamic soft-tissue evaluation into personalized treatment approaches. Research in this scoping review analyzed current applications of AI in face-driven orthodontics, focusing on diagnosis, soft-tissue assessment, and individualized treatment planning. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus for studies published between 2021 and 2025. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Of 54 initially identified studies, 24 met the inclusion criteria after title, abstract, and full-text screening. Extracted data were organized according to the main application areas of AI in face-driven orthodontics. Most studies focused on AI-assisted facial analysis, 3D reconstruction, and treatment simulation. Deep learning models demonstrated high performance in soft-tissue prediction, aesthetic evaluation, and diagnostic accuracy. However, heterogeneity in datasets, a lack of standardized validation protocols, limited external validation across included studies and limited clinical applicability were identified as key limitations. AI-based facial analysis supports a shift toward individualized, aesthetics-oriented orthodontic planning. Although current evidence highlights its potential for improving diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes, further validation through large-scale clinical studies is essential for broader implementation in everyday practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry and Craniofacial District: The Role of Biomimetics 2026)
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