Technologies and Materials for Application in Dental, Oral and Maxillofacial Engineering

A special issue of Journal of Functional Biomaterials (ISSN 2079-4983). This special issue belongs to the section "Dental Biomaterials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 February 2025) | Viewed by 8290

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
1. Department of Surgery, University of Freiburg, 79098 Freiburg, Germany
2. Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
Interests: imaging; CAD/CAM; biostatistics; prediction modelling; artificial intelligence; deep learning; machine learning
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Guest Editor
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
Interests: CAD/CAM; digital planning; imaging; dental technology; cancer surgery

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Guest Editor
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
Interests: cancer surgery; CAD/CAM; digital planning; imaging; dental technology; artificial intelligence
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to introduce an upcoming Special Issue entitled “Technologies and Materials for Application in Dental, Oral and Maxillofacial Engineering”, which will be published in the Journal of Functional Biomaterials. This Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive platform for researchers, scientists, and practitioners to explore and discuss cutting-edge advancements in the field of dental, oral, and maxillofacial engineering.

The overarching focus of this Special Issue is to bring together diverse perspectives and insights on the integration of innovative technologies and advanced materials in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. The scope encompasses, but is not limited to, the following:

  1. Material Advancements: novel biomaterials, including biocompatible polymers, ceramics, and composites, designed for dental and maxillofacial applications.
  2. Digital Planning and Imaging: the utilization of advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D radiography and intraoral scanning, for precise diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring.
  3. CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing): innovations in CAD/CAM technologies for the efficient fabrication of dental prosthetics, implants, and orthodontic devices.

This Special Issue aims to contribute to the existing literature by synthesizing state-of-the-art research and facilitating interdisciplinary discussions. By fostering collaboration between materials scientists, engineers, dentists, and oral surgeons, we hope to advance the field of dental, oral, and maxillofacial engineering, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.

We invite researchers from various disciplines to submit their original research articles, reviews, and case studies that align with the objectives of this Special Issue. Together, we can chart new horizons in dental and maxillofacial engineering, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in the pursuit of patient-centric care.

We look forward to your valuable contributions and the fruitful discussions that will shape the future of this field.

Warm regards,

Dr. Babak Saravi
Dr. Andreas Vollmer
Dr. Stefan Hartmann
Guest Editors

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 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Functional Biomaterials 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 2700 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

  • biomaterials
  • digital planning
  • CAD/CAM
  • artificial intelligence
  • dental engineering
  • maxillofacial engineering
  • materials science
  • dental technology

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

18 pages, 4728 KiB  
Article
Influence of Pontic Length on the Structural Integrity of Zirconia Fixed Partial Dentures (FPDs)
by Tareq Hajaj, Ioana Elena Lile, Ioana Veja, Florina Titihazan, Mihai Rominu, Meda Lavinia Negruțiu, Cosmin Sinescu, Andreea Codruta Novac, Serban Talpos Niculescu and Cristian Zaharia
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(4), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16040116 - 25 Mar 2025
Viewed by 452
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the influence of pontic length and design on the fracture resistance of zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). By assessing different span lengths under controlled mechanical loading conditions, the research seeks to provide insights into optimizing the structural [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the influence of pontic length and design on the fracture resistance of zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). By assessing different span lengths under controlled mechanical loading conditions, the research seeks to provide insights into optimizing the structural integrity of zirconia dental bridges. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 zirconia bridges were fabricated and tested in vitro. Ten bridges were designed to replace a single missing molar (tooth 46), with a pontic span of 11 mm, while the remaining ten were crafted for two missing teeth (35 and 36), featuring a longer pontic span of 17 mm. The zirconia frameworks were milled using the Wieland Zenotec® Select Hybrid system and cemented onto metal abutments with Voco Meron Plus QM resin-reinforced glass ionomer cement. The specimens were subjected to occlusal loading using a ZwickRoell ProLine Z005 testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until fracture occurred. Results: The mechanical testing revealed a significant correlation between pontic length and fracture resistance. The mean fracture resistance for three-unit bridges (single pontic) was 3703 N, whereas four-unit bridges (double pontic) exhibited a significantly lower resistance of 1713 N. These findings indicate that increased span length reduces the fracture resistance of zirconia restorations due to higher stress accumulation and reduced rigidity. Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of pontic length and design in determining the fracture resistance of zirconia restorations. Shorter spans exhibit greater structural stability, reinforcing the need for careful treatment planning when designing multi-unit zirconia bridges. By optimizing bridge parameters, clinicians can improve clinical outcomes and extend the longevity of zirconia prostheses in restorative dentistry. Full article
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15 pages, 2196 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Pontic Geometry on Load to Failure and Displacement in Implant-Supported Monolithic Zirconia Prostheses: An In Vitro Analysis
by Silvia de la Cruz-Jiménez, Paloma Martínez-Alcaraz, Javier Flores-Fraile, Rubén Agustín-Panadero, Ana Belén Lobo-Galindo, Concepción Carbonell-López and Álvaro Zubizarreta-Macho
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16030076 - 20 Feb 2025
Viewed by 674
Abstract
The pontic design may influence the load-to-failure performance of fixed implant-supported screw-retained monolithic zirconia prostheses. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of pontic geometry on the fracture resistance of such restorations. Forty restorations were designed using dental CAD software and divided into [...] Read more.
The pontic design may influence the load-to-failure performance of fixed implant-supported screw-retained monolithic zirconia prostheses. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of pontic geometry on the fracture resistance of such restorations. Forty restorations were designed using dental CAD software and divided into four groups (n = 10 each): (A) Flat + Wide—pontics with a flat contour, 10 mm in width and 8 mm in height; (B) Concave + Wide—pontics with a concave contour, 10 mm in width and 5.5 mm in height; (C) Flat + Narrow—pontics with a flat contour, 6 mm in width and 8 mm in height; and (D) Concave + Narrow—pontics with a concave contour, 6 mm in width and 5.5 mm in height. All specimens underwent thermal and mechanical cycling, followed by a fracture load test using a three-point bending setup. Maximum fracture loads and displacements were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Statistically significant differences were observed among the groups for both load to failure (p = 0.001) and displacement (p = 0.002). These findings indicate that pontic geometry significantly influences the fracture resistance and deformation behavior of monolithic zirconia prostheses. Full article
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16 pages, 8074 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Assessment of Dental Enamel Microcrack Progression After Orthodontic Bracket Debonding Using Optical Coherence Tomography
by Ahmed Haj Hamdan, Sm Abu Saleah, Daewoon Seong, Naresh Kumar Ravichandran, Ruchire Eranga Wijesinghe, Sangyeob Han, Jeehyun Kim, Mansik Jeon and Hyo-Sang Park
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16010007 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1838
Abstract
The current study aimed to quantify the length progression of enamel microcracks (EMCs) after debonding metal and ceramic brackets, implementing OCT as a diagnostic tool. The secondary objectives included a three-dimensional assessment of EMC width and depth and the formation of new EMCs. [...] Read more.
The current study aimed to quantify the length progression of enamel microcracks (EMCs) after debonding metal and ceramic brackets, implementing OCT as a diagnostic tool. The secondary objectives included a three-dimensional assessment of EMC width and depth and the formation of new EMCs. OCT imaging was performed on 16 extracted human premolars before bonding and after debonding. Debonding was conducted with a universal Instron machine, with ARI values recorded. Additionally, 2D and 3D OCT images were employed to detect EMC formation and progression. Enface images quantified the length, width, and number of EMCs, and the length and width were analyzed using Image J (1.54f) and MATLAB (R2014b), respectively. Sagittal cross-sectional images were used for EMC depth analysis. A paired t-test showed significant differences in the length, width, and number of EMCs after debonding (p-value < 0.05), while the Wilcoxon non-parametric test indicated significant EMC depth changes (p-value < 0.05). No significant results were identified for the EMC number in ceramic brackets and EMC depth in metal brackets. Three-dimensional OCT imaging monitored existing EMCs at higher risk of progression and detected new EMCs following orthodontic bracket debonding. This study provides novel insights into EMC progression regarding the length, width, depth, and number after debonding. Full article
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21 pages, 5147 KiB  
Article
Investigating Bioactive-Glass-Infused Gels for Enamel Remineralization: An In Vitro Study
by Zbigniew Raszewski, Katarzyna Chojnacka and Marcin Mikulewicz
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050119 - 29 Apr 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2422
Abstract
Objective: Dental hypersensitivity remains widespread, underscoring the need for materials that can effectively seal dental tubules. This study evaluated the potential of bioactive-glass-infused hydroxyethyl cellulose gels in this context. Methods: Five gels were synthesized, each containing 20% bioactive glass (specifically, 45S5, S53P4, Biomin [...] Read more.
Objective: Dental hypersensitivity remains widespread, underscoring the need for materials that can effectively seal dental tubules. This study evaluated the potential of bioactive-glass-infused hydroxyethyl cellulose gels in this context. Methods: Five gels were synthesized, each containing 20% bioactive glass (specifically, 45S5, S53P4, Biomin F, and Biomin C), with an additional blank gel serving as a control. Subjected to two months of accelerated aging at 37 ± 2 °C, these gels were assessed for key properties: viscosity, water disintegration time, pH level, consistency, adhesion to glass, and element release capability. Results: Across the board, the gels facilitated the release of calcium, phosphate, and silicon ions, raising the pH from 9.00 ± 0.10 to 9.7 ± 0.0—a range conducive to remineralization. Dissolution in water occurred within 30–50 min post-application. Viscosity readings showed variability, with 45S5 reaching 6337 ± 24 mPa/s and Biomin F at 3269 ± 18 mPa/s after two months. Initial adhesion for the blank gel was measured at 0.27 ± 0.04 Pa, increasing to 0.73 ± 0.06 Pa for the others over time. Gels can release elements upon contact with water (Ca Biomin C 104.8 ± 15.7 mg/L; Na Biomin F 76.30 ± 11.44 mg/L; P Biomin C 2.623 ± 0.393 mg/L; Si 45S5-45.15 ± 6.77mg/L, F Biomin F 3.256 ± 0.651mg/L; Cl Biomin C 135.5 ± 20.3 mg/L after 45 min). Conclusions: These findings highlight the gels’ capacity to kickstart the remineralization process by delivering critical ions needed for enamel layer reconstruction. Further exploration in more dynamic, real-world conditions is recommended to fully ascertain their practical utility. Full article
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16 pages, 4806 KiB  
Article
Biological and Mechanical Performance of Dual-Setting Brushite–Silica Gel Cements
by Valentin C. Steinacker, Tobias Renner, Ib Holzmeister, Sebastian Gubik, Urs Müller-Richter, Niko Breitenbücher, Andreas Fuchs, Anton Straub, Mario Scheurer, Alexander C. Kübler and Uwe Gbureck
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040108 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1784
Abstract
Bone defects resulting from trauma, diseases, or surgical procedures pose significant challenges in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The development of effective bone substitute materials that promote bone healing and regeneration is crucial for successful clinical outcomes. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) [...] Read more.
Bone defects resulting from trauma, diseases, or surgical procedures pose significant challenges in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The development of effective bone substitute materials that promote bone healing and regeneration is crucial for successful clinical outcomes. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) have emerged as promising candidates for bone replacement due to their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and ability to integrate with host tissues. However, there is a continuous demand for further improvements in the mechanical properties, biodegradability, and bioactivity of these materials. Dual setting of cements is one way to improve the performance of CPCs. Therefore, silicate matrices can be incorporated in these cements. Silicate-based materials have shown great potential in various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering and drug delivery systems. In the context of bone regeneration, silicate matrices offer unique advantages such as improved mechanical stability, controlled release of bioactive ions, and enhanced cellular responses. Comprehensive assessments of both the material properties and biological responses of our samples were conducted. Cytocompatibility was assessed through in vitro testing using osteoblastic (MG-63) and osteoclastic (RAW 264.7) cell lines. Cell activity on the surfaces was quantified, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to capture images of the RAW cells. In our study, incorporation of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in dual-curing cements significantly enhanced physical properties, attributed to increased crosslinking density and reduced pore size. Higher alkoxysilyl group concentration improved biocompatibility by facilitating greater crosslinking. Additionally, our findings suggest citrate’s potential as an alternative retarder due to its positive interaction with the silicate matrix, offering insights for future dental material research. This paper aims to provide an overview of the importance of silicate matrices as modifiers for calcium phosphate cements, focusing on their impact on the mechanical properties, setting behaviour, and biocompatibility of the resulting composites. Full article
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