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Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances
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Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances

A Special Issue of Journal of Functional Biomaterials (ISSN 2079-4983) belonging to the section "Dental Biomaterials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2027 | Viewed by 25460

Editors

Dr. Maria Pia Di Palo

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Guest Editor
Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
Interests: oral medicine; oral surgery; pediatric dentistry; oral pathology; implant dentistry; oral microbiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Federica Di Spirito

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Salerno, Italy
Interests: oral medicine and interconnected systemic disorders; oral microbiome, dysbiosis and interconnected systemic disorders; periodontology and implantology; applied technologies (disease prevention, teledentistry)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Francesco Giordano

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84084 Baronissi, Italy
Interests: implant dentistry; oral surgery; bone reconstructive surgery; dental materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We invite you to contribute research and review articles highlighting innovative approaches and essential findings in implant dentistry and peri-implant health.

This Special Issue will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in biomaterials and biofabrication techniques in oral medicine, periodontology, and implant dentistry. By bringing together researchers and clinicians from different disciplines, we aim to foster collaboration and facilitate the translation of innovative research findings into clinical practice to ultimately improve patient care and outcomes in oral health and regenerative medicine.

Original research articles addressing the development and characterization of novel biomaterials for oral tissue engineering and regeneration; review articles summarizing the latest advances in biofabrication techniques and their applications in oral surgery, periodontology, and implantology; studies examining the use of stem cells and growth factors in conjunction with hydrogel scaffolds to promote tissue regeneration and osseointegration; prospects for the clinical implementation of hydrogel-based therapies and their impact on improving patient outcomes in oral medicine and implant dentistry; and investigations into the role of digital planning and additive manufacturing technologies in the customization of hydrogel scaffolds for patient-specific treatment approaches are welcomed.

Dr. Maria Pia Di Palo
Dr. Federica Di Spirito
Dr. Francesco Giordano
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 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. 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

  • hydrogel
  • biofabrication
  • collagen
  • stem cells
  • oral medicine
  • periodontology
  • implantology
  • oral surgery
  • biomaterials
  • digital planning
  • tissue engineering
  • tissue regeneration
  • osseointegration

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 4144 KB  
Article
Gingerol Enhances Osteogenic/Odontogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells Impaired by Oxidative Stress via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
by Abdullah Alqarni, Jagadish Hosmani, Naif Abdulrhman Al Fadhil, Nasser Zafer Abdullah AlHamid, Hassan Ahmed Assiri, Rayan Mohammedfarooq Meer and Bandar Yahya Alshehri
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(6), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17060266 - 1 Jun 2026
Viewed by 1086
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) possess significant regenerative potential; however, oxidative stress impairs their viability and osteogenic differentiation. Gingerol, the principal bioactive component of ginger, exhibits antioxidant and cytoprotective properties. This study evaluated the protective effects of gingerol on DPSCs [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) possess significant regenerative potential; however, oxidative stress impairs their viability and osteogenic differentiation. Gingerol, the principal bioactive component of ginger, exhibits antioxidant and cytoprotective properties. This study evaluated the protective effects of gingerol on DPSCs exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: DPSCs isolated from extracted human teeth following Institutional Review Board approval and informed consent were exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative stress and treated with varying concentrations of gingerol. Cell viability, migration, osteogenic activity, mineralization, intracellular ROS accumulation, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related gene expression were evaluated using MTT, scratch wound healing assay, Alizarin Red S staining, ROS staining, ELISA, and real-time PCR. Results: Gingerol improved DPSC viability, migration, and mineralization under oxidative stress conditions. Increased ALP and BSP expression indicated enhanced osteogenic activity, while reduced ROS accumulation suggested attenuation of oxidative injury. Gingerol also modulated MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and normalized oxidative stress-associated alterations in inflammatory and Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related gene expression. Conclusions: Gingerol demonstrated protective effects against oxidative stress-induced dysfunction in DPSCs and supported osteogenic differentiation. These findings suggest that gingerol may serve as a supportive bioactive candidate for regenerative dental applications; however, further mechanistic and in vivo studies are required to confirm its therapeutic potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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18 pages, 2261 KB  
Article
Cyclic Acidic Beverage Exposure Induces Formulation-Dependent Mechanical Softening and Tribological Alterations in Microhybrid and Nanohybrid Dental Resin Composites
by Żaneta Anna Mierzejewska, Patrycja Wołosiewicz, Kamila Łukaszuk, Bartłomiej Rusztyn, Jan Borys and Bożena Antonowicz
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(3), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17030139 - 11 Mar 2026
Viewed by 1304
Abstract
Dental resin composites are routinely exposed to chemically aggressive beverages that may compromise long-term functional performance. This study investigated the structure–property–tribology relationships of four restorative composites (Filtek Z250, Filtek Z550, Herculite, and Herculite Ultra) subjected to cyclic immersion in beverages with different pH [...] Read more.
Dental resin composites are routinely exposed to chemically aggressive beverages that may compromise long-term functional performance. This study investigated the structure–property–tribology relationships of four restorative composites (Filtek Z250, Filtek Z550, Herculite, and Herculite Ultra) subjected to cyclic immersion in beverages with different pH values. A total of 120 cylindrical specimens (7 mm diameter, 2 mm thickness; n = 5 per material per condition) were fabricated and exposed to mineral water, tea, coffee, Coca-Cola®, Cola Light®, and red wine for 28 days under cyclic conditions. Microhardness, surface roughness (Ra), steady-state coefficient of friction (COF), and mass variation were evaluated. All composites exhibited significant microhardness reduction after acidic exposure (p < 0.05), with the greatest decrease observed for Herculite Ultra in red wine (−47.4%) and Coca-Cola® (−35.3%). Filtek Z250 demonstrated the highest baseline hardness and the lowest degradation susceptibility. Surface roughness changes were formulation-dependent, with Herculite Ultra showing pronounced roughening (ΔRa up to +0.074 µm), whereas Filtek Z550 exhibited erosion-driven smoothing (ΔRa down to −0.068 µm). Tribological behaviour was primarily governed by matrix softening rather than roughness alterations, with softened systems displaying unstable frictional responses (COF range: 0.127–0.697; p < 0.05). The results indicate that polymer matrix stability plays a more critical role in long-term functional performance than surface roughness or mass variation alone. Clinically, frequent exposure to acidic and solvent-containing beverages may accelerate mechanical and tribological degradation of susceptible composite formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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13 pages, 1296 KB  
Article
Impact of Autoclaving on the Dimensional Stability of 3D-Printed Surgical Guides for Aesthetic Crown Lengthening
by Albert González-Barnadas, Anna Ribas-Garcia, Adrià Jorba-García, Rui Figueiredo, Eduard Valmaseda-Castellón and Octavi Camps-Font
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(8), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16080284 - 2 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3309
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of autoclaving on the dimensional stability of surgical guides (SGs) for aesthetic crown lengthening (ACL) using different resins/printing methods. Fifty SGs for ACL were printed using five different resin/printer combinations (FL, SR, ND, [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of autoclaving on the dimensional stability of surgical guides (SGs) for aesthetic crown lengthening (ACL) using different resins/printing methods. Fifty SGs for ACL were printed using five different resin/printer combinations (FL, SR, ND, KS and VC). All the SGs were scanned before (T0) and after (T1) sterilization. Autoclaving was conducted at 134 °C during 4 min. The STL files of each SG at T0 and T1 were compared with the original design (TR). Dimensional stability was measured using trueness and precision. Deviations from TR to T1 were calculated in the three space axes and by measuring the area between three reference landmarks. At T0, the FL group showed the best trueness and precision, while the SR group performed significantly worse than the other groups. At T1, all the groups except VC exhibited significant dimensional alterations compared with T0. Also, VC showed the best trueness and precision values. All the groups had a significant deviation in at least one space axis, while only the SR group exhibited significant variations from T1 to TR in the area between the reference landmarks. Most of the evaluated resin/3D printer combinations suffered significant dimensional alterations after autoclaving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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15 pages, 3215 KB  
Article
The Effect of Collagen Membrane Fixation with Pins on Buccal Bone Regeneration in Immediate Dental Implant Sites: A Preclinical Study in Dogs
by Yuma Hazama, Takahisa Iida, Niklaus P. Lang, Fernando M. Muñoz Guzon, Giovanna Iezzi, Daniele Botticelli and Shunsuke Baba
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(8), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16080281 - 31 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2940
Abstract
Background: The role of collagen membrane fixation during guided bone regeneration (GBR) remains debatable, particularly in post-extraction sockets with buccal defects and concomitant immediate implant placement. This study evaluated whether or not fixation with titanium pins improved regenerative outcomes. Methods: Six adult Beagle [...] Read more.
Background: The role of collagen membrane fixation during guided bone regeneration (GBR) remains debatable, particularly in post-extraction sockets with buccal defects and concomitant immediate implant placement. This study evaluated whether or not fixation with titanium pins improved regenerative outcomes. Methods: Six adult Beagle dogs received bilateral extractions of the fourth mandibular premolars. An implant was immediately placed in both the distal alveoli, and standardized buccal bone defects (5 mm height, 3–2 mm width) were prepared. All defects were filled with a slowly resorbing equine xenograft and covered by a resorbable pericardium membrane. At the test sites, the membrane was apically fixed with pins, while no fixation was applied to the control sites. After 3 months of healing, histomorphometric analyses were performed. Results: The vertical bone gain of the buccal crest was 3.2 mm in the test sites (pin group) and 2.9 mm in the control sites (no-pin) (p > 0.754). No significant difference was found in terms of bone-to-implant contact (BIC). However, residual graft particles were located significantly more coronally in the pin group compared to the no-pin group (p = 0.021). Morphometric analyses revealed similar new bone formation within the groups, but with higher amounts of residual xenograft and soft tissue in the pin group. Conclusions: Membrane fixation did not significantly enhance vertical bone gain, and although the slightly higher regeneration in the pin group (3.2 mm vs. 2.9 mm) may hold clinical relevance in esthetically sensitive areas and osseointegration, it appeared to limit apical migration of the grafting material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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Review

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27 pages, 955 KB  
Review
Cellular Responses at the Zirconia Dental Implant Interface: A Comprehensive Review
by Marija S. Milic, Jelena Simonovic and Vladimir S. Todorovic
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(8), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17080372 - 1 Aug 2026
Viewed by 795
Abstract
Titanium remains the gold standard in dental implantology; however, its clinical drawbacks, such as hypersensitivity reactions, metallic particle release, and aesthetically compromising discoloration, have driven interest in metal-free alternatives. Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) has emerged as a promising bioceramic candidate, offering favorable [...] Read more.
Titanium remains the gold standard in dental implantology; however, its clinical drawbacks, such as hypersensitivity reactions, metallic particle release, and aesthetically compromising discoloration, have driven interest in metal-free alternatives. Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) has emerged as a promising bioceramic candidate, offering favorable aesthetics, mechanical strength, and reduced bacterial plaque affinity. Its pristine surface is nonetheless bioinert, prompting extensive research into surface modification strategies, including sandblasting, acid-etching, femtosecond laser texturing, and bioactive coatings, to enhance osteoconductivity. This comprehensive narrative review synthesizes in vitro evidence on the behavior of key host cell populations—macrophages, mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells in response to Y-TZP surface and its modifications, relevant to osseointegration and soft-tissue sealing. A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, supplemented by Google Scholar, concluding in March 2026. By integrating findings across multiple cell lineages, this review aims to clarify how engineered zirconia topographies modulate cell-specific pathways, thereby informing the development of next-generation implants optimized for biological integration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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18 pages, 920 KB  
Review
Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review
by Iris Xiaoxue Yin, John Yun Niu, Veena Wenqing Xu, Ollie Yiru Yu, Irene Shuping Zhao and Chun Hung Chu
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17010011 - 23 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1513
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 [...] Read more.
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. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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36 pages, 2482 KB  
Review
Micro- and Nanoplastics and the Oral Cavity: Implications for Oral and Systemic Health, Dental Practice, and the Environment—A Narrative Review
by Federica Di Spirito, Veronica Folliero, Maria Pia Di Palo, Giuseppina De Benedetto, Leonardo Aulisio, Stefano Martina, Luca Rinaldi and Gianluigi Franci
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(9), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16090332 - 6 Sep 2025
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5213
Abstract
Background: Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as increasing environmental and public health concerns. Dentistry contributes to this exposure through polymer-based materials and personal oral care products. This review summarizes the current evidence on the sources, release mechanisms, physicochemical properties, and toxicological and [...] Read more.
Background: Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as increasing environmental and public health concerns. Dentistry contributes to this exposure through polymer-based materials and personal oral care products. This review summarizes the current evidence on the sources, release mechanisms, physicochemical properties, and toxicological and biological effects of MNPs derived from dental sources and oral care products, as well as the synergistic effects of MNP oral exposure with environmental exposure. Methods: An electronic search was performed across the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify studies investigating the source, release mechanisms, physico/chemical properties, and toxicological/biological impact of MNPs related to dental materials, oral care products, and the synergic effects of MNPs oral and environmental exposure. Results: MNPs are released in the dental setting from resin-based composites, clear aligners, and prosthetic and impression materials through degradation, wear, and handling processes. Home-use products like toothpastes, toothbrushes, floss, and mouthwashes contribute to chronic oral exposure. Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and human biomonitoring studies supports the biological activity and systemic distribution of MNPs. Despite this, clinical awareness remains limited, and regulatory oversight insufficient. Conclusions: Dentistry is both a source and vector of MNP exposure. Encouraging the use of safer, MNP-free materials, and raising awareness among dental professionals, may support more responsible and health-conscious practices. Further research and alignment with global policy strategies could help guide future innovation and risk mitigation in the dental field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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30 pages, 2009 KB  
Review
Innovative Smart Materials in Restorative Dentistry
by Roxana Ionela Vasluianu, Livia Bobu, Iulian-Costin Lupu, Magda Antohe, Bogdan Petru Bulancea, Antonia Moldovanu, Ovidiu Stamatin, Catalina Cioloca Holban and Ana Maria Dima
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(9), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16090318 - 30 Aug 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4831
Abstract
The growing challenge of biofilm-associated infections in dentistry necessitates advanced solutions. This review highlights the potential of smart bioactive and antibacterial materials—bioactive glass ceramics (BGCs), silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-doped polymers, and pH-responsive chitosan coatings—in transforming restorative dentistry. BGCs reduce biofilms by >90% while promoting [...] Read more.
The growing challenge of biofilm-associated infections in dentistry necessitates advanced solutions. This review highlights the potential of smart bioactive and antibacterial materials—bioactive glass ceramics (BGCs), silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-doped polymers, and pH-responsive chitosan coatings—in transforming restorative dentistry. BGCs reduce biofilms by >90% while promoting bone integration. AgNP-polymers effectively combat S. mutans and C. albicans but require controlled dosing (<0.3 wt% in PMMA) to avoid cytotoxicity. Chitosan coatings enable pH-triggered drug release, disrupting acidic biofilms. Emerging innovations like quaternary ammonium compounds, graphene oxide hybrids, and 4D-printed hydrogels offer on-demand antimicrobial and regenerative functions. However, clinical translation depends on addressing cytotoxicity, standardizing antibiofilm testing (≥3-log CFU/mL reduction), and ensuring long-term efficacy. These smart materials pave the way for self-defending restorations, merging infection control with tissue regeneration. Future advancements may integrate AI-driven design for multifunctional, immunomodulatory dental solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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16 pages, 569 KB  
Review
Digitally Designed Bone Grafts for Alveolar Defects: A Scoping Review of CBCT-Based CAD/CAM Workflows
by Francesco Puleio, Giuseppe Lo Giudice, Gaetano Marenzi, Rosaria Bucci, Riccardo Nucera and Roberto Lo Giudice
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(9), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16090310 - 28 Aug 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2636
Abstract
This scoping review aimed to systematically map the literature on digital workflows for the design and fabrication of customized bone grafts in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The review focused on the integration of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), computer-aided design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing [...] Read more.
This scoping review aimed to systematically map the literature on digital workflows for the design and fabrication of customized bone grafts in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The review focused on the integration of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), computer-aided design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) techniques for the production of personalized bone blocks. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Ovid MEDLINE identified 151 records published between 2015 and 2025; after duplicate removal, screening, and full-text assessment, 16 articles were included. Six additional seminal studies published before 2015 were considered through manual search to provide historical background. The included studies consisted of case reports, case series, prospective clinical investigations, and preclinical experiments. Customization strategies involved synthetic hydroxyapatite scaffolds, CAD/CAM-milled allogeneic blocks, xenogeneic blocks, and digitally guided autogenous grafts. Four studies provided direct clinical documentation of customized CAD/CAM bone blocks, while the others offered complementary evidence on digital design, scaffold adaptation, or preclinical validation. Outcomes included graft adaptation, volumetric stability, implant survival, and limited histological analyses. Despite promising short-term results, no study has yet described the complete clinical workflow from CBCT acquisition to milling and implantation of a biological autologous or xenogeneic block in humans. This review underscores both the feasibility and the limitations of current approaches, highlighting the absence of fully validated digital-to-biological protocols as the main gap to be addressed in future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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Other

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19 pages, 6189 KB  
Technical Note
An Autologous Tooth-Shell Technique for Ridge Reconstruction and Immediate Implant Placement: A Two-Case Technical Report and Review of the Literature
by Jan Łoś, Justyna Szałkowska-Łoś, Michał Pikuła and Paulina Adamska
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(8), 402; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17080402 - 14 Aug 2026
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Background: Autologous dentin has emerged as a potential grafting material in regenerative oral surgery because of its structural and biological similarities to bone. This technical report describes a modified tooth-shell technique used for horizontal ridge reconstruction with simultaneous implant placement in two [...] Read more.
Background: Autologous dentin has emerged as a potential grafting material in regenerative oral surgery because of its structural and biological similarities to bone. This technical report describes a modified tooth-shell technique used for horizontal ridge reconstruction with simultaneous implant placement in two clinical cases involving the aesthetic zone. Case Presentation: The first case involved a 29-year-old female patient requiring extraction of a partially impacted, buccally positioned maxillary third molar (tooth 28). The extracted tooth was processed intraoperatively to obtain a dentin shell, which was fixed as a buccal plate during simultaneous implant placement. The remaining defect was filled with sticky bone prepared from biphasic calcium phosphate combined with platelet-rich fibrin. Radiographic evaluations performed at 4 and 6 months demonstrated stable ridge contours, while clinical follow-up continued for 2 years with maintenance of implant function and peri-implant tissue stability. The second case involved a 58-year-old female patient with a previous failure of immediate implantation in the anterior maxilla associated with implant overload, loss of implant stability, and buccal bone deficiency. After soft- and hard-tissue healing, ridge reconstruction was performed using a dentin shell prepared from tooth 18 together with simultaneous implant placement and immediate provisional restoration. Follow-up after 6 months revealed stable peri-implant tissues, a satisfactory aesthetic outcome, and successful prosthetic rehabilitation. Conclusions: The modified tooth-shell technique using autologous dentin provided satisfactory preliminary clinical and radiographic outcomes in both cases. These findings should be considered hypothesis-generating and require confirmation in larger prospective studies with longer follow-up periods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry: Current Status and Advances)
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